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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 








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Henry Greville, 


BY MARY NEAL SHERWOOD. 


PHIL ADEL PHLA ; 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS. 



PRICE 50 CENTS. 




PETEESOUS’ “DOLLAR SERIES” 

OF GOOD AND NEW NOVELS, ARE THE BEST, LARGEST, HANDSOMEST, AND 

THE CHEAPEST BOOKS IN THE WORLD. 

Each are In one Volume, in Red, Blue, or Tan Vellum, Gold and Black.— Price $1.00. 


“ PETERSONS' DOLLAR SERIES" of Good and New Novels are the cheapest books at One Dollar each ever 
published. They are all issued in uniform style, in 12mo. form, and are bound in red, blue, or tan vellum, with gold 
and black sides and back, and are the best, the largest, the handsomest, and the cheapest books in the world, being sold 
at the low price of One Dollar each, while they are as large as any books published at $1.7o and 1^2.00 each. The 
following books have already been issued in “ Petersons' Dollar Series," and a new one will be published every month, 
in the same style, same size, and at the same low price, making them the most popular books in the world. 

A WOMAN’S THOUGHTS ABOUT WOMEN. By Miss Mulock. Every Lady should have it. 
TWO WAYS TO MATRIMONY ; or. Is It Love, or. False Pride ? For Ladies and Gentlemen 
THE STORY OF “ELIZABETH.” By Miss Thackeray, daughter of William M. Thackeray, Esq. 
FLIRTATIONS IN FASHIONABLE LIFE. By Catharine Sinclair. 

THE MATCHMAKER. A Society Novel. Bj' Beatrice Reynolds. Full of freshness and vitality of truth. 
THE RIVAL BELLES ; or, L|fe in Washington. By J. B. Jones, author “ Wild Western Scenes.” 
THE WOMAN IN BLACK. A Companion to “ The Woman in White,” by Wilkie Collins. 

MY SON’S WIFE. A strong, bright, interesting, and charming Novel. By the author of “Caste.” 
SARATOGA! AND THE FAMOUS SPRINGS. Being an Indian Tale of Frontier Life. 
COUNTRY QUARTERS. A Charming Love Story. By the Countess of Blessington. I 

SELF-LOVE. A Book for Young Ladies and Women, with their prospects in Single and Married Life contrasted^ 
LOVE AND DUTY. A Charming Love Story. By Mrs. Hubback. 

THE DEVOTED BRIDE ; or, FAITH AND FIDELITY. A Love Story. By St. George Tucker. 
THE HEIRESS IN THE FAMILY. By Mrs. Mackenzie Daniel, author of “Marrying for Money.” 
COLLEY CIBBER’S LIFE OF EDWIN FORREST, with Reminiscences and Recollections. 
THE MAN OF THE WORLD. This is full of style, elegance of diction, and force of thought. i 

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. A Woman’s Story and a Woman’s Book, being the Story of a Woman’s Life. 
THE QUEEN’S FAVORITE ; or. The Price of a Crown. A Romance of King Don Juan. 
THE CAVALIER. A Novel. By G. P. R. James, author of “ Lord Montagu’s Page,” “ The Man in Black.” 
THE RECTOR’S WIFE; or, THE VALLEY OF A HUNDRED FIRES. 

HAREM LIFE IN EGYPT AND CONSTANTINOPLE. By Emmeline Lott. 

THE COQUETTE ; or, THE LIFE AND LETTERS OF ELIZA WHARTON. i 

WOMAN’S WRON^. A Book for Women. By Mrs. Eiloart. A Novel of great power and originality. | 

THE OLD PATROON ; or, THE GREAT VAN BROEK PROPERTY. By Maitland. 
THE PRIDE OP LIFE. A Love Story. By Lady Jane Scott. 

Above books are each bound in Red, irlue, or Tan Vellum, with Gold and Black Sides and Back,— Price $1.00 each. 

Tht above Books are all issued in “ Petersons' Dollar Series," and they will be found for sale by all Book- 
sellers and News Agents, everywhere, at One Dollar each, or copies of any one, or more, or all of them, will be sent to 
any one, to any place, at once, post-paid, on remitting the price of the ones wanted in a letter, to 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, Pubiishems, 

306 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 

4^^ T. B. Peterson d- Brothers have just issued a new, Rlustrated Catalogue, which will be sent to any address, 
if wHtten for ; and great attention ivill be paid to all orders from the country, and. all brjoks ordered, will be carefully 
packed and forwarded at once, on receipt of orders accompanied with the cash, addressed to the publishers, as above. | 


A EUSSIAN STOET. 


^ A r* - - ^ 7 ■ / ■' i-.. 

U-J - -- ^- -, t c , 

/ ’» 

BY HENRY GREVILLE. 

AUTHOR OF “SAVELI’S EXPIATION,” AND “ GABRIELLE.” 

TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH 
BY MARY NEAL SHERWOOD. 




Henry Griville's last and greatest novel, “ Sonia," is charming and refined, and 
is a powerful Russian story of a poor little Russian girl, " Sonia," (a serf, of 
course,) knocked about and abused by the brutal aristocrats whom she served. 
The great value of the romance consists in the delicacy and originality with which the 
really beautiful character of the girl, “ Sonia," is developed. “ Sonia " is a grace- 
ful, domestic story, displaying the author’s imaginative style and play of fancy, is 
careful in construction, and charmingly told— giving one a very distinct idea of every- 
day home life in Russia. Henry Griville is a brilliant French woman, but has resided 



PHILADELPHIA: 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS; 

306 CHESTNUT STREET. 


copyright; 
T. <5c 

1878. 








?> 



Sonia. A Russian Stoiy. By Henry GrtviUe, author of “SaT61i’s Expiation,” 
“ Gabrielle,” etc. Translated from the French, by Mary Neal Sherwood, 

Henry Greville’s new novel, “Sonia,” is charming and refined, and is a powerful 
Rus-'ian story of a poor little Russian slave girl (a serf, of course), knocked about and 
abused by the brutal aristocrats whom she served, until a young tutor who had come to 
give lessons at the chateau took her under his protection. The great value of this ro- 
mance consists in the delicacy and originality with which the really beautiful character 
of the girl, “ Sonia,” is developed. “ Sonia ” is a graceful, domestic story, displaying tho 
author’s imaginative style and play of fancy, is careful in construction, and charmingly 
told — gi^lng one a very distinct idea of every-day home life in Russia. Madame Henry 
Greville is a brilliant French woman, but has resided for many years in Russia, where 
she has thoroughly mastered all phases of Russian character. 

Saveli’s Expiation, By Henry Greville. A dramatic and powerful novel of 
Russian despotism in the time of serfdom ; combining in it a pure, pathetic and ten- 
der love story. Translated from the French of Henry Greville, by Mary Neal Sherwood. 

One of the most dramatic and most powerful novels, and the one that established Henry 
Greville’s fame in Europe, is “Savlli’s Expiation,” {translabd from the French, by Alary 
Neal Sherwood), which is a faithful portrayal of Russian despotism in the time of serfdom, 
and although the character on which the plot rests is strongly drawn, it is not overdrawn, 
but is true to the times and situation. Pow'erful as it is, it is as free from exaggeration 
as if it were described from memory of an actual event, while a pathetic, tender love 
story is presented for relief. Henry Greville’s canvases are never crow ded, though she 
is not what is called an emotional writer; yet there is an underlying tone of pathos 
in this novel which escapes at times in poweiiul passages, the interest being welt sus- 
tained thnughout, while the story is refined and exceedingly enjoyable. The charm 
of all her novels consists in their freshness, her characters being delineated with bold 
yet delicate touches, and perfect truthfulness made subservient to art, so that one 
finds in them an individuality which makes them life pictures. Herein lies He ry 
Greville’s pow'er, for few could write novels which leave so strong an impression on tho 
mind as hers, and yet employ so few incidents and so little of the sensational. Her por- 
trayal of life and manners, as w'ell as her descriptions of scenery, give evidence of quick 
observation and keen analysis, and her language is peculiar for its figurativeness. Her. 
characters are not tediously described, but represent themselves, like verihible dramatis 
personse, as do those from every masterly pen . — Boston Daily Evening Ti'anscript. 

Gabrielle ; or. The Honse of Manrease. Translated from the French of 
Madame Henry Griville, the most popular writer in Europe at the present time. 

“GABRIELLE; or, THE HOUSE OF MAUREZE,” is a very touching story, most 
skilfully told, and follows the life of a girl whose title it bears. At sixteen, when the 
story opens, she marries into the house of Maureze, never having seen her husband 
until she meets him at the altar, which was the custom of the time of Louis the Four- 
teenth. Monsieur Maureze was forty when his wdfe was sixteen. Maureze loved his 
young wife as well !is he could love anything, but could not endure the sarcasm of his 
friends in his devotion to her, so he concluded to put his wife away from temptation, 
when, after a year or so, he leaves her in the Maureze Chateau, out of sight and out of 
mind for eighteen years. Before rejoining his regiment, two children are horn to them, 
and it is of Gabrielle and her sorrows that the story treats. If we were to tell anj^ more 
of the plot it would be to tell the story, so w'e advise all persons to get the book, and see 
for themselves how naturally everything happened, and how excellently it is all told. 

AboTe are 50 Cents each in paper cover, or $1.00 each in cloth, black and gold. 


CONTENTS 


OHAPTER ' . PAGE 

I. AN EXPERIMENT 21 

■ II. A mother’s sacrifice 30 

III. LYDIE 34 

IV. LESSONS 38 

Y. WHITE ROSES 47 

VI. AT THE SPRING ; 54 

‘VII. NEEDLES AND THREAD 62 

VIII. PRINCE ARMIANOF 72 

IX. AN EXPLOSION 83 

X. AN “enfant terrible” 90 

XI. OATHS AND PROMISES 102 

XII. HESITATION AND EXPLANATION Ill 

XIII. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 120 

XIV. A MOTHER’S WELCOME .' 129 

XV. LIGHT IN THE HORIZON 136 

XVI. PREPARATIONS 153 

XVII. SONIA’S FAREWELL 159 

XVIII. A RAILWAY STATION 168 

(19) 


20 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER PACE 

XIX. LETTERS I AND NO LETTERS 1 180 

XX. A HOUSE OF MOURNING 198 

XXI. IN THE WORLD 207 

XXII. A HAZARDOUS INTERVIEW 219 

XXIII. ARMIANOF AGAIN 234 

XXIV. UNEXPECTED VISITORS 242 

XXV. NEW THOUGHTS AND PLANS 249 

XXVI. A FAIR HORIZON 260 


S O 3sr I 

TRANSLATED FROM THE 

FEENCH OE HENEY GEEVILLE, 

BY MARY NEAL SHERWOOD. 


CHAPTER I. 


AN EXPERIMENT. 


ANTED — A Tutor for the summer months, by 
VV a family in the country. For particulars, 


address Madame La Generale Gor^line, at the Tvershdiay 
Maison Mialof, Moscow.^^ 

Why not?” said Boris Gr4bof to himself, as he folded 
the journal in which he had just read this advertisement. 
^^Why not this as well as another? And since there 
must always be a first time, why not to-day as^well as 
to-morrow ? ” He rose, put on his light spring over- 
coat, and went out to try his fate. 

He certainly could not have been accused of too 
much eagerness in this act; he walked on with an in- 
different air. La Tverskaia was a long distance off; to 
reach it, he was compelled to pass through the Chinese 
district — that most picturesque bazar of Moscow — resem- 

( 21 ) 


22 


SONIA. 


bling more a Byzantine town of the middle ages than a 
portion of a nineteenth century capital. The young man 
lingered at every corner, using the slightest possible excuse 
for delay ; but destiny furnished none of sufficient conse- 
quence, and he reached General Gor^line’s without having 
found any pretext for turning back. 

As the outer door swung open, a Swiss in a green 
uniform, considerably the worse for w^ear, profusely 
trimmed with tarnished gold lace, emerged from a small 
niche in the vestibule. A strong odor of soup, a mixture 
of cabbage and dried mushrooms, exhaled from this appa- 
rition. 

“What do you want?” he asked, in a tone of imperti- 
nent familiarity, as he examined the young man from head 
to foot. 

“ What do I want ? ” replied Gr4bof, in a tone that was 
a precise repetition of the man’s. “ I want to see Madame 
La G4n4rale Gor4line ? ” 

“Ah ! you come for the place then? You are a tutor, I 
suppose. Very well, you may go up.” 

“ Where is ^ up,’ if you please?” 

“ The fourth floor. A good many young students have 
been here these last two days, but they have not suited ! ” 

“This is certainly encouraging and agreeable,” mur- 
mured Gr^bof, as he climbed, not without some difficulty, 
the last two flight of stairs — stairs as steep as a ladder in 
a granary — particularly in comparison with the lower 
ones, which were as comfortable as if they had been built 
for an archbishop. “A Swiss who meddles with the business 
of the family, and stairs that are as difficult to climb as the 


SONIA. 


23 


masts of a ship at sea are not pleasant things to begin 
with ! Pshaw ! I shall not suit either, but the first step 
will have been taken at all events.’^ 

He stopped, for he was on the upper floor, and stood 
before a door that was draped with faded hangings, and 
was decorated with a copper plate on which was engraved 
the name of Stepane PHrovitch GorelinCf and rang the bell. 
No one came. After waiting a considerable length of time, 
he, in an atrocious humor, was about to sound another 
and more vigorous peal, when he heard the hurried steps 
of a servant, who stopped evidently to fasten the last 
buttons of his livery coat, then threw open the door, and 
Boris found himself before a' little man of a half frightened 
aspect. 

Madame La G^n^rale Gor^line ? asked Gr^bof, glanc- 
ing at the shabby clothes of the servant, which were white 
on every seam and ragged at every button-hole. 

The establishment had no attractions for our hero, and 
he was sorely tempted to turn his back upon it. 

Madame is at home,’^ replied the little man, in a 
flurried tone. You came for the place I suppose, sir ! 

Yes, for the place,’^ said Boris, half angrily. 
seems to me that all of you know my business better than 
I do myself ! 

The little man, frightened half out of his senses, drew 
back hastily, and answered in an apologetic tone: 

“ Madame gave orders that any one who came for the 
place should be admitted. Walk in, sir.” 

Boris found himself in a salon furnished in wine-colored 
velvet. The hangings had suffered cruelly from the 


24 


SONIA. 


ravages of moths, the paper was soiled and torn in spots, 
the wood of the sofas and arm-chairs were scratched and 
had long since parted with its varnish, and the worn and 
shabby carpet, which covered only a portion of the parquet, 
showed by its irregularity of pattern that it had been 
repaired, and the oldest pieces cut out. 

A full-length portrait of G4n4ral Gor^line, with all his 
decorations, and with cannons in the background, orna- 
mented the wall on the left. On the right, half barricaded 
by a table covered with albums, hung another portrait, also 
full-length, and equally worthless in point of execution, 
but of which the original must have been possessed of 
remarkable beauty. 

The regular features looked as if they were carved from 
ivory, and the delicate coloring of the complexion was like 
that of a Bengal rose that has paled under a summer sun. 
The expression of this portrait was like that of most 
portraits — a smile of utter vacancy. 

If that is Madame Gor^line,’^ said Boris to himself, as 
he examined it, ‘^she has certainly been in her day a 
very beautiful woman, and ought to retain some traces 
of beauty.” 

A rustle of silk was heard. Boris turned; Madame 
Gor^line had entered the room. She bowed slightly to the 
young man, and took a seat just- under her own portrait. 

This habit, adopted in her youth to demonstrate that 
the likeness was not a flattered one,” had become fatal 
with the lapse of time. The teeth were discolored, the 
nose had grown red and pointed, and a mechanical, 
bitter sort of smile had taken the place of the common- 
place sweetness of the picture. 


SONIA. 


25 


There is not much beauty left there!’’ thought Boris, 
while Madame Gor^line pointed to a chair, and uttered, 
in French, the conventional, ‘^Be seated, sir.” 

You wish to pass the summer with us?” said the lady, 
very sweetly. 

Boris bowed in acquiescence. 

“ Let me tell you how matters are,” she continued. 

You would be required to teach my little boy, Eugene. 
He is eleven, and is really a very nice lad. I do not say 
this, I assure you, merely because I am . his mother, 
but every one says the same; all our neighbors in the 
country simply worship him. I wish to send him to 
school in the autumn, and the summer must be spent in 
preparing him for his examination in sciences and 
languages — ^you speak French?” 

Yes, madame.” 

^^And German?” 

Not very well ; but I can teach it perfectly.” 

^^And Latin and Greek?” 

Those are not necessary, madame, for the primary class 
in our schools,” answered Boris, repressing a smile; for 
the interview was becoming amusing; ^‘but I am equally 
at home in those two languages. I have devoted much time 
to them for the three past years at the university.” 

Madame GorGine thawed more and more. ^'You 
see,” she said, ‘^a teacher must be well founded on every 
subject if he is to be subjected to the incessant questions 
of children — intelligent children, I mean, of course. It is 
literally true, sir, that even I am sometimes nonplussed by 
the questions asked by my sou. I always answer them. 


26 


SONIA. 


to be sure, for it is essential to preserve one^s prestige ; but, 
however, you know yourself what children are” 

Indeed I do not!^^ answered Boris, somewhat curtly. 

^^Ah, indeed! I conclude, then, this is the first time 
that you have sought a tutor’s place for the summer? ” 
Yes, madame, this is the first time.” 

“Ah I and yet you have been for three years at the 
university?” 

“Yes, madame.” 

“It is very singular — ” 

She stopped as she encountered the somewhat haughty 
eyes of the young man, and dared not continue her cross- 
examination. 

“ It is most singular,” she resumed, after a second of 
silence, “that you have never cared to pass a summer in 
a family ; still, so far as I am concerned, this would prove 
no obstacle — in fact, quite the contrary; you would be for 
my son more of a companion than a master, and that is 
what I desire.” 

“I shall remember these words,” said Boris to himself. 

“ We pass our summer near Smolensk, where I have an 
estate. We leave town on the 14th of May — that is to 
say, a week from Tuesday. You can accompany us if you 
choose, or can follow a day or two later; there is a 
diligence which brings you within ten versts of us. You 
will have much leisure, for Eugene is still so young that 
four hours of study are enough for him. You can ride 
and drive. We have a river, where there is good bathing 
in warm weather. Of course you will be regarded as a 
member of the family,” continued the lady with a beaming 


SONIA. 27 

smile, the effect of which was, however, rendered less 
charming by the teeth it displayed. 

^‘How delightful ! and how extremely convenient it all 
appears!” said Boris, continuing his soliloquy; but he was 
amused, nevertheless. 

“As to the salary,” resumed Madame La G4n4rale, 
becoming more austere in manner, “ I give twenty roubles 
per month for three months — that is to say, sixty roubles 
for the summer.” 

These last words seemed to distress her, for she stopped 
short and examined her cambric handkerchief, which was 
sadly torn near the embroidered cipher. 

“I cannot accept less than a hundred roubles, madame, 
for the three months,” answered Boris, in a polite but 
very firm tone. 

“A hundred silver roubles to prepare a small boy for 
school ! Really, sir, the duties demanded of you are so 
trivial, and your time will be nearly all at your own 
disposal.” 

“ I care not if my duties are trivial or not, madame,” 
interrupted Boris, calmly, “ but I assure you that it is 
impossible for me to accept less than the hundred 
roubles I ” 

The lady was silent, and evidently embarrassed. Boris 
pleased her ; his modesty and dignified bearing impressed 
her most favorably; while a certain vague sense of his 
superiority which would permit her to say to her friends, 
I have with me a man of the most extraordinary talents,” 
tempted her to yield ; “ but one hundred roubles,” she said 
to herself, “ one hundred roubles are a great deal of 
money.” 


28 


SONIA. 


I regret, madame,” said Boris, rising, that we cannot 
come to an understanding.’^ 

He said this in French, with an accent that had so little 
of the Muscovite intonation that the lady placed her hand 
on his arm to detain him. 

This is really your final decision ? ” she said. 

I never bargain, madame,” he answered, with some 
little disgust. 

^‘Really, but it is an enormous sum! Since you 
insist upon it, I must yield, I presume.” (She had had a 
happy thought.) “As you will have so many unoccupied 
hours, you would, I imagine, be willing to give my 
daughter some lessons in French. She left school last 
year, and I am afraid is losing much of what she learned. 
Lydie ! ” she called. 

“ Mamma I ” replied a fresh young voice. 

“Come here!” 

The door opened, and Boris saw the original of the 
portrait that had once resembled Madame La Gen^rale ; 
but this was a brilliant, smiling original : a little haughty 
in bearing, proud of her beauty, and sure of her empire. 
It was Mademoiselle Lydie Goreline. 

“ Lydie, my child,” said her mother, “ this is — I beg 
your pardon, sir, but I do not yet know your name ? — ” 

“ Grebof — Boris Ivanovitch.” 

“This is Boris Ivanovitch, who will pass the summer 
with us in the country, and who will help you with your 
French.” 

The young girl cast a half-pouting, half-pleased look at 
Grebof — pleased, without doubt, at having such a good- 


SONIA. 


29 


looking preceptor (for Boris was a very handsome fellow), 
and pouting at the idea of resuming her studies. 

“Come and dine with us Sunday, Boris Ivanovitch; 
you will then make my husband’s acquaintance, and can 
see my Eugene. He is out walking just now : it is a pity, 
I should have liked you to see him ; but Sunday will do.” 

Boris now rose, notwithstanding the entreaties of 
Madame La G^n^rale to prolong his stay, and with a 
profound bow left the room. The little frightened servant 
helped him on with his overcoat ; and, as he stood in the 
anteroom, the young man heard Lydie say to her mother, 
in the most decided tones : 

“I will not, mamma — I will not! I hate French, and 
loathe a French grammar, and I will never touch one 
again ! ” 

“Listen, dear,” said Madame Gordline: “this young 
man has made most exorbitant terms, and he must be 
thoroughly utilized.” 

“I won’t utilize him, then!” replied Miss Lydie. 

The door closed, and Gr^bof heard no more. As he 
went out, the Swiss in the shabby livery appeared again. 

“Well, sir, is that you?” 

“Yes, my good fellow, it is I!” answered Boris, laugh- 
ing good-naturedly ; “ and everything is settled.” 

“ The G^n^ral will be thankful enough,” said the Swiss ; 
“ all this commotion did not suit him.” 

“ The G^n^ral ? Ah I yes, I understand ; in fact, I had 
forgotten that there was such a person,” muttered Boris, 
in a low voice. “ Everything is for the best, to be sure ; 
but these are droll servants, upon my word!” 


30 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER II. 

A mother’s sacrifice. 

AS Boris walked through the streets on his way to his 
rooms, he was conscious of a feeling of unaccount- 
able depression. 

“ It is because I have sold myself into bondage ! ” he 
muttered, and this thought disturbed him more than he 
would have believed possible. ‘^The chains do not 
threaten to be very heavy ; and after all,” he continued, 
“ three months is no time at all — and then one hundred 
roubles means to me, that I shall not be compelled to 
give lessons next winter, but shall have plenty of leisure 
to prepare myself for my future career.” 

In order to get rid of this melancholy impression, he 
went into the Kremlin gardens, and climbed the hill. He 
panted for fresh air ; the walls of the wine-colored salon 
still seemed to stifle and weigh him down. 

Arriving on the esplanade covered with churches, which 
crowns the Kremlin, he put his arms on the parapet and 
looked at the superb panorama that was spread out before 
him. Countless domes and towers, of every form and color, 
were seen above thick masses of trees and roofs of houses. 
A bright ray of sunshine rested on the enormous gilded 
cupola of the Saint Sauveur. At his feet the river glittered 
like a narrow steel ribbon, and further off* lay a mass of 
green hills, one lapping over the other, and nearer were 


SONIA. 


31 


the various monasteries, amid newly planted fields and 
wcTods of the tenderest, freshest spring foliage. 

The swallows uttered joyous cries as they flew around 
the old towers, and hope revived in the heart of the young 
man. A gust of wind stole his hat ; he caught it with a 
laugh, and like all conquerors, all poets, and many another 
beside, whose names are unknown to fame, cried aloud : 

“ I shall make a place for myself yet in this world — the 
future is mine ! ” 

Saluting with a triumphant gesture the city, which was 
as yet ignorant of his existence, he turned away, and with 
a rapid step sought his rooms, where he at once seated 
himself, and wrote as follows to his mother: 

Dearest Mother : — I told you that I had decided to 
take a situation for the summer, that I might lay aside 
sufficient money to enable me to work without hindrance 
next winter. I have found a family where I shall have a 
certain portion of the day to myself, and at the same time 
earn a hundred roubles with much ease. I am sure that 
you, in thinking how useful this sum will be to me, will 
agree in thinking my step a wise one; nevertheless, as 
you very well know, I should have infinitely preferred 
to pass the summer with you in my native village 

Here Boris stopped writing. This native village, with 
its peasants’ homes, the great swing on the green, that 
always caught in the branches of the birch trees, if it was 
pushed too high, and which then scattered on the turf and 
in the clear brook showers of their perfumed petals ; the 


32 


SONIA. 


songs of the children in their red skirts on fete-days, and 
the old blind horse that was always pulled to the left if he 
was wanted to go to the right, and the superannuated 
Drozhkij in which his mother visited the remote corners of 
their estate ; all these beloved familiar scenes and things, 
passed before his eyes in a moment, and Boris laid his 
head on his folded arms while an unwonted moisture filled 
his eyes. 

For the first time for twenty years he would not this 
summer see that dear home. And who could tell what 
was in store for him in this other dwelling-place where 
he had promised to take up his abode, and where he 
slx)uld feel, in all probability, like a chained and impris- 
oned animal. 

He started to his feet, and took two steps toward the 
door, ready to give up his engagement. But battling 
bravely against this weakness, he returned to the table, 
and again resumed his pen — 

— with you in my native village, where I fear the 
days will be long for you without me. But, you know, 
my beloved mother, that our modest means entails certain 
sacrifices upon both of us. You have deprived yourself 
of many things for me, and it is my part now to take care 
of myself — as many a college student of my years has 
done without a thought of hardship. Nevertheless, the 
sacrifice would be I fear, impossible for me to make, did 
I not intend to see you before the Christmas vacation. 
I shall visit you, rest assured, before the beginning of the 
university term. Write to me, dearest and best of mothers 


SONIA. 


33 


— tell me that you approve of my resolution, for if my 
absence grieves you too much, I will renounce the 
project.^^ 

Having added a few words more, he sealed his letter 
and addressed it to Varvara Petrovna, in the town of 
Gribova, District of Kostroma. 

The following Sunday came the reply. This most 
excellent of women loved her son 4oo tenderly to throw 
any obstacle in his path. She had wept much on reading 
his letter, but not a tear had stained the paper. The Holy 
Saints, before whose Images she knelt morning and night, 
alone knew the pangs her resolution had cost her. 

But try and come to me this autumn,^’ she said, for 
I am growing old, my son ; and I have not yet grown 
accustomed to seeing so little of you ! 

Boris read between the lines and well knew all that was 
concealed in this simple request. He pressed the letter 
to his lips, and went to dine with Madame Gor^line. 

2 


34 


SONIA. 


CHAPTEE III. 


LYDIE. 


ADEMOISELLE LYDIE had probably taken a 



-LV-L violent dislike to the student on account of the 
French grammar, for she did not make her appearance at 
the family dinner. She had chosen this day to pay a 
visit to one of her friends, and at four o’clock sent word 
that she should remain to dinner. Madame Gor^line was 
highly displeased, and her husband, as usual, was the 
chosen victim of her ill-humor. 

It would be difficult to imagine a smaller being, or a 
more active and philosophic a person than G^n^ral Gor^- 
line. 

Accustomed to the impossibility of opening his lips in 
the presence of his better half, he had adopted early in his 
married life the part of silence wffien with her. But he 
made amends for this when he found a good listener. 

Intolerant toward others — in words be it understood — 
almost as much so as his wife was toward him, he an- 
nounced his opinions, solid and full-grown — almost as if 
they were of bronze, like his cannons; but these opinions 
were forgotten by himself as soon as uttered, and if his 
own arguments were presented the next day, he demolished 
them to powder with the ease and directness of a shell 
thrown into a fort. 

This charming child” of Madame Goreline’s — her 


SONIA. 


35 


Engine — was a boy much like other boys, neither more 
nor less intelligent, but deliciously impertinent toward his 
father ; as any one who heard the manner in w’hich 
Madame Gor^line addressed her husband, in the presence 
of her children, might easily suppose would be the case. 

The dinner, scanty and pretentious, was precisely that 
indicated by the wine-colored salon. There was one fish, 
delicate and well-cooked, but insufficient in quantity for 
the number of guests, of whom two or three had but a 
crumb or two floating in the mayonnaise dressing. The 
salad was made of rancid oil and watery vinegar, a 
domestic fabrication, and so on to the end. 

The mistress of the house overwhelmed Boris with 
attentions and dainty morsels. Eugene, somewhat intimi- 
dated by the presence of the new-comer, behaved in the 
most satisfactory manner ; and the G4n4ral was so much 
absorbed that he did not open his mouth after the first 
and only four words. 

Delighted to see you ! - 

The other guests — four or five — dull and. uninteresting, 
had begun a discussion on the respective merits of different 
races of cows. 

Boris was bored to death. His face told this perhaps, 
for Madame Gordline cut short a very elaborate description 
of their summer home. 

They went back to the salon to take their coffee. 
Boris was thinking how he should escape without appear- 
ing to be guilty of a rudeness, when suddenly the door 
was thrown widely open, Lydie appeared, rosy and 
smiling, dressed in white, with wide blue ribbons, and 


36 


SONIA. 


carrying in her hand a bunch of white lilacs. Boris, 
struck with the radiant beauty of the girl, examined her 
with more attention than he had previously done. This 
she at once detected, and rewarded him with a most 
gracious bow and smile, wherein a close observer might 
have read far more than met the eye. 

How early you have returned ! exclaimed her mother. 
^'At what hour, pray, did you dine ? ’’ 

am sure I donT know,” answered Lydie, seating 
herself just opposite Boris ; but I was tired, and I left 
as soon as we rose from the table.” 

I am glad you were away ! ” cried Eugene, for we 
had more cake ! ” 

Madame Goreline cast reproving glances at this terrible 
Eugene ; but they were quite thrown away, for he began 
again ; 

If you had been at the table, there would not have 
been enough cake to go round, for father took two pieces ! ” 

Madame Goreline concealed her anger under an explo- 
sion of forced laughter. But Lydie, evidently annoyed at 
the turn taken by the conversation, addressed herself to 
Boris in her sweetest tone : 

“Shall you go with us next Tuesday, sir?” she asked. 

“ I cannot yet say.” 

“ But you must decide at once, Boris Ivanovitch,” said 
Madame Gor61ine. “ If you come we shall take the car- 
riage and the caleche ; if not, I shall take the carriage 
alone, and send my maid by the diligence — ” 

“And we four go in the carriage ? ” interrupted Lydie. 
“ No, indeed, mamma, I will not go in the carriage with 


SONIA. 


37 


papa, who smokes all day, and with Eugene, who kicks 
everybody in the most persistent fashion/’ 

“Which do you prefer that I should do?” asked Boris 
of his hostess. 

“ Why, if you come, I can put you and Eugene in the 
caliche, and take my maid in with us.” 

Lydie made a slight indefinable gesture. 

“ Come ! Mr. Boris,” she said, “ it is delightful to travel 
in a caravan, and besides we shall pass the night at one of 
the stations — ” 

“ ISTo,” interrupted her mother, “ this time we shall not 
stop.” 

“Ah ! well — that is better still. I delight in travelling 
at night, when the dew is falling and the ground is fresh 
and damp.” 

Boris thought of the thick woods, musical with the 
songs of nightingales, that he passed through on his way 
to his mother’s house, and his heart ached. 

“You will come with us, will you not? Besides,” the 
girl added, dropping her voice, “ it is by no means certain 
that Eugene will be your companion all the journey.” 

Boris looked at her in some doubt, not quite sure of 
what she meant. 

“ You shall have papa for a portion of the day,” she 
continued, with a gay little laugh. “ Mamma, it is all 
settled ; Mr. Boris will go with us ! ” 

As indeed he did. And the cunning Lydie, who being 
a thoroughly spoiled child, always compassed her own 
ends, arranged matters so well, that she was his com- 
panion in the large caliche, sometimes alone and sometimes 
with her little brother, for the greater part of the journey 


38 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER IV. 

LESSONS. 

T he window was open; the flickering shadow of the 
lindens played over the copy-book lying on the 
table; the hum and whirr of insects filled the garden; 
and the wide lake sent golden arrows of light into the 
eyes of Boris as he dictated to his charming pupil, who 
had really become wonderfully submissive. The great 
room in which he gave his lessons w'as cool and almost 
damp, notwithstanding the warmth of the June weather. 
Mademoiselle Lydie had placed that day a white rose in 
her chestnut hair, whose rippling, capricious waves took a 
golden tint in the light. One rebellious curl almost con- 
cealed the flower which peeped out occasionally at some 
dainty movement of the pretty head bowed over the 
copy-book. 

“The flowers that we have gathered to-day dictated 
the young man, “ will be faded to-morrow — from the verb 
faner — now how will you write the past participle, 
mademoiselle?^^ 

As he mechanically asked thii^ question, Boris looked at 
the white rose which was so near his hand. 

It was a month since he left Moscow, and he was no 
longer his own master. An irresistible force had swept 
away all his outposts and left him without protection. 
Until then love had seemed to him like a glorious dream. 




SONIA. 


39 


the realization of which was afar off in the future ; and 
now he had learned that there was neither light nor 
warmth, hope nor joy, save in the eyes of this young 
girl. 

He loved her with all his soul — as only a youth of his 
years can love — with a love that perhaps was not of any 
great depth or lasting duration, but by which Boris was 
now completely absorbed. 

Lydie, you are writing with your nose ! cried 
Madame Goreline, who at this moment passed the open 
door. 

Lydie started, and then went to close the door with an 
air of ill-humor, but returned laughing. Boris was very 
pale. The voice of Madame Gor^line was heard in the 
distance scolding the gardener. Lydie had reseated her- 
self, taken her pen, and prepared to write. She repeated 
the last words, ^Haded to-morrow!’^ 

^^Give me your book,” said Boris, in a constrained 
tone. 

Not yet : dictate some verses as you did the other day,” 
answered Lydie, clasping her book in both hands. 

Boris drew toward him a volume of selections. 

^^No, not that: it is stupid. Dictate to me that poem 
— ^Spring Time in the Alps,’ you know ! ” 

Still silent, Boris took the small yellow volume and 
opened it at hap-hazard. Lydie drew it away and chose a 
page. 

“ Here ! ” she said, pushing the volume toward the 
young man. 

He began to read. He sought to impart to his voice a 


40 


SONIA. 


tone of indifference ; but the impassioned melody of the 
poem, which is absolutely intoxicating, took him entirely 
off his feet. He suddenly stopped, for he felt that he was 
conquered. 

^^Your book?’^ he said, and he could not utter one 
other syllable. 

Lydie, without lifting her eyes, laid the book before 
him. He was dizzy; for a month he had seen her, 
coquettish and gay, indifferent and cruel by turns, but so 
completely and adorably beautiful, that he found each day 
his lesson more difficult to give. Gathering all his courage' 
he drew the copy-book nearer. 

I beg your pardon,^^ said Lydie, in a tone so low that 
he heard it with difficulty ; and she laid her hand on the 
page. 

Their hands met. Boris grasped the slender fingers, 
which fluttered a little in his hold, but were not with- 
drawn. He endeavored to meet her eyes, but her face was 
turned aside, and he could see only her throat and one rosy 
ear suffused with blushes. He felt as if he w^ere no 
longer on earth as he lifted the girks hand to his lips. 
She started and made a futile attempt to take it away. 

Lydie, I love you ! I love you more than life itself! 

She made no reply; a low, quivering sigh alone indicated 
that she heard him, and seemed to ask, ‘^And then ? ” 

“ Lydie, if you have finished your lesson, come and pick 
some strawberries ! said her mother, as she hastily passed 
the window. 

^‘1 am coming!’’ answered Lydie, rising in haste. 
Boris stood transfixed as if struck by lightning. The girl 


SONIA. 


41 


glided to the door, then turning on the threshold took the 
white rose from her hair, and with a burning blush threw 
it lightly to the young man, and disappeared. 

A moment later Lydie passed under his window ; he 
could not see her from the place where he still stood ; but 
he heard her singing in a low voice the well-known song 
of the Princess Kotchouby, 

“ Oh ! say to my beloved that I love him, 

As the angels worship God I ’’ 

After the first two lines he heard no more": she was too 
far away. Boris buried his face in his hands. What 
have I done ? he said, bitterly ; I love her, and if she 
loves me, what then ? ” Nevertheless this last idea restored 
all his energy. He went out to the garden, there to pace 
up and down the long alleys buried in thought. Here 
he finally came across G6n6ral Goreline. 

The society of this gallant soldier Boris always enjoyed, 
and with the exception of the hours spent with Lydie, 
and those passed in solitude thinking of her, he had no 
such agreeable moments as those with the General, when 
they discussed some knotty points in politics, or found 
fault with the administration. 

The reasoning of the G6n6ral was not especially forcible or 
close; he said nothing particularly new or interesting; but 
he warmed up in his arguments in a most amusing fashion. 
When he fancied that he had uttered what he called a 
poser,’’ he dropped the pipe that he held in his mouth, 
stopped short in his rapid strides, and watched the result 
of his words as he would have done the discharge of his 
cannons on the battle-field. 


42 


SONIA. 


There was nothing to be said in refutation of the reasons 
he advanced, or rather he would listen to no replies, and 
be convinced by no reasoning. 

You do not understand me ! ” he would say, sadly 
shaking his head, and drawing two or three long whiffs from 
his pipe. It is not that ! Oh, no ; you are all wrong ! ” 

But what was it then, and what did he mean to say? 
No one ever knew. 

But no matter what it was or was not, Boris had learned 
to love this kindly-hearted man for his own sake as well 
as because he was Lydie’s father. On his side, Gor^line — 
treated almost contemptuously by all the other inmates of 
the house, including the servants — became much attached 
to this young man, whose manner toward him was in- 
variably polite. 

At this moment, with his arms behind him, he was 
stooping over some Spanish beans, which ought by this 
time to have covered the trellis, but as yet had not emerged 
from the ground. 

It is certainly most extraordinary,’^ he muttered. ^‘1 
water them every day with my shaving water just as the 
Major told me^and yet — I declare it is most extraor- 

As he caught sight of Boris he straightened himself up, 
and called out gayly : 

Come here, young man, come here ! I have heard 
great news this morning. Prince Armianof has returned 
to his estates after three years of absence. His coachman 
came to see our cook.” 

What is that to me ? ” said Boris to himself ; but he 


SONIA. 


43 


answered ^oud : If it brings you any pleasure, I am 
very glad to hear it ! 

What do you say? If it brings me any pleasure? 
The return of an old friend certainly ought to b'e most 
gratifying. To be sure, it was his deceased father who 
nv’as my friend, but his son is a nice fellow and immensely 
wealthy — a great match for any young woman,’’ he added, 
lowering his voice to a mysterious whisper. 

A great match ? ” repeated Boris, mechanically. 

Of course ; all mothers like to see their daughters 
princesses, and rolling in money beside! As to myself, I 
care very little for rank. A general of artillery, who had 
won his brevet by a gallant act, stands higher, in my 
estimation, than a prince, who has merely taken the trouble 
to be born I ” 

“You have no aristocratic prejudices then?” asked 
Boris, as if such a question ever elicited an intelligible 
reply. 

“ I ? Is one at all, I do assure you 1 Julie Alexe’ievna” 
— his wife be it understood — “has enough for both of us. 
And you see — ” 

“Then,” interrupted Boris, courageously, “you would 
permit your son to marry a young girl of modest birth, if 
his heart so dictated ? ” 

“Parbleu!” said the G^n^ral, in French — this, with 
laerci and honjonVy forming his entire philological luggage. 

At this moment a small figure appeared at the end of 
the terrace. It was a little ragged peasant girl, trotting 
along with bare feet, and holding in her hand one of the 
G^n^ral’s pipes, which was nearly as tall as her slender self. 


44 


SONIA. 


“ See here, St^pane Pdtrovitch ! I found this at the 
foot of the garden.’^ 

In the summer-house?” 

“No, St4pane Petrovitch — standing up against the 
hedge.” 

“Ah ! yes, I remember. I was mending the fence, and 
I left it there. I missed another, still, this morning.” 

“ I know; I found that one, too. It is the small white 
one. I found it on the white bench ! ” 

“ No, not that, another ! I must have left it somewhere 
among the stables — go and look for it ! ” 

The little girl nodded and set off on a run. Her heels 
struck regularly against her torn woollen skirt, and her 
hands hung at her side ; they were small and delicately 
made, but roughened and browned by working in the fields. 

“That IS my pipe-hunter ! ” said Stepane Petrovitch. 
“ She is entirely devoted to me ; but she must have taken 
a fancy to you, for she asked Douania to let her put your 
room in order. She is an extraordinary little person, who 
likes very few people. For example,” he continued, in a 
whisper, “ she can’t endure my wife ! ” 

“ And why, pray ? ” 

“ How can I tell ! But Any wife dislikes her quite as 
much. But she is my servant, and it is I who pay her,” 
continued the good man, laughing heartily, as if, in the 
idea of his paying a servant’s wages, there was something 
unnatural and fantastic. 

“And how much do you pay her?” asked Boris, 
smiling also — moved by the contagious laugh of his 
companion. 


SONIA. 


45 


‘^Thirty copecks a month,” replied the G4n6ral, still 
laughing; ^^she is an orphan, and has never known a 
father, while her mother died nine or ten years ago.” 

But how old is she ? ” asked Boris, in surprise. I 
should not think her more than ten ! ” 

She is eleven or twelve. She has not been brought 
up very tenderly, you see. I like her very much ; and 
she lives in the kitchen with the other servants.” ' 

Little Sophie, who was called Sonia, for the Russians have 
a passion for pet names and abbreviations, now appeared, 
holding the missing pipe, which she presented to its owner. 

St^pane Petrovitch spent his days sowing his pipes in 
every corner of his domain, and the duties of this child 
were therefore no sinecure. 

^^Well done, Sonia! I thank you very much,” said 
Gor4line, as he smoothed the little girl’s glossy head. 

Her dark gray eyes sparkled with joy; she snatched the 
great paw-like hand of her friend, and pressed her lips 
upon it. 

She is a nice little thing ! ” said Boris, without think- 
ing that she could hear him. 

The child turned her frank, honest face toward him. 

You put ray room in prder, Sonia, I hear,” said the 
young man, kindly ; and I am much pleased with you. 
You do your work as well as a grown woman.” 

With a characteristic Russian gesture, Sonia placed her 
folded arm across her eyes, and from behind this shelter 
looked at Boris. Her face grew scarlet, and she hastily 
turned and fled. 

Lydie now appeared on the terrace, holding in the skirt 


46 


SONIA. 


of her dress a quantity of flowers. A pretty slender foot 
peeped out from her embroidered petticoats, as she hurried 
toward her father. 

^‘Good-morning, papa!’’ she cried, with a vivid blush. 
And she embraced tlie old man, who was much astonished 
at this unwonted display of aflection. 

“ Come to breakfast,” she said, gently. And she hung 
on his arm without vouchsafing a glance at Boris, who 
followed them in an ecstasy of delight. Already the soft 
folds of that violet skirt bounded his horizon, 


i 


SONIA. 


47 


CHAPTER V. 

WHITE ROSES. 

H OW unending seemed that day to Boris ! He longed 
to be alone, and think over the occurrences of the 
morning; but, by a series of circumstances which are 
never lacking in similar cases, the house was crowded 
with visitors all day long. It was impossible to speak to 
Lydie — almost impossible to look at her — for he felt that 
for her sake, as well as his, their mutual secret must not 
be betrayed. 

She was as calm and self-possessed as if nothing in par- 
ticular had occurred ; the color in her cheeks was possibly 
more brilliant than usual, and her eyes were brighter, but 
she was thoroughly herself ; while the innermost soul of 
the young man was disturbed, and he had no thought save 
for the morrow, when he should once more meet her face 
to face, and when, perhaps, he might again touch her hand. 
He might not be able to say one word to her, for they 
were constantly interrupted by the comings and goings of 
the servants, and by Madame Gor^line herself. But he 
should see her, and his heart stood still at the mere 
thought. 

At last the visitors departed. Their carriages disap- 
peared in a turn of the road, and Boris bent toward 
Madame La Gen^rale to say good-night. The lady 
extended her hand as usual, as did the G^n^ral. The 


48 


SONIA. 


young man did not venture to cast a glance at Lydie, wha 
had retreated a few steps. 

Good-night, Lydie Stepanovna, he said, as he passed 

her. 

‘‘Good-night,’’ she answered, in a low voice, but did 
not lift her eyes. And he entered the house without 
having exchanged a look with her. 

As he opened the door of his room, he was infinitely 
astonished at its appearance; his candle, already lighted, 
stood on the table near the bed, and the book that he had 
been reading the evening before had been taken from the 
shelf and placed in readiness for him. The shade on the 
window had been carefully lowered to keep the light from 
his eyes in the early morning. A sweet, fresh perfume 
filled this carefully arranged room, where nothing was left 
of the day’s disorder. He took the light in his hand to 
examine more closely the unwonted appearance ; and on 
his bureau was an enormous bouquet of full-blown, white 
roses standing in a glass of water. 

“ She brought them ! ” was his first thought. “ That 
is impossible ! ” was his second, as quick and much less 
consoling. “ She sent the roses,” was his next idea, and 
filled with joy and gratitude Tie dropped into the narrow 
arm-chair, where he usually sat, and dreamed of Lydie 
until, startled at the lateness of the hour, and overwhelmed 
with sleep, he staggered to his bed and slept soundly until 
morning. 

Master Eugene had prepared the day before an agree- 
able surprise for his tutor. Blowing a trumpet that he 
held to his lips with one hand, and striking with the 


SONIA. 


49 


other terrific blows on a drum — which during the whole of 
their journey from Moscow, had rolled under the feet of 
every one, and yet had unfortunately survived — the 
engaging lad came with a series of kicks to the door of 
poor Boris. 

He, poor fellow, started up, thinking that he was at least 
assisting at the siege of Jericho ; then, collecting himself, 
addressed to Master Eugene a sermon, the sole result of 
which was to make the boy sulky and unmanageable for 
the remainder of the day. 

Boris, however, cared little for the vagaries of his 
pupil; he waited the coming of that one hour of the 
twenty-four; all the others were encumbrances; dim and 
misty clouds through which floated a series of impressions 
more or less disagreeable. 

Lydie,’’ said Madame Gor^line, suddenly, in the room 
next the one where the girl came for her lessons. “ Lydie, 
suppose we go and dine with the Antropofs ? 

'^And why, mamma?’’ asked Lydie, reluctantly. 

Because the thing would, be done then ; and it has 
been hanging over us long enough. Go and dress at once, 
and we can go in an hour, and return before dark.” 

Boris, who was at the blackboard doing an example 
in division, stood still with the crayon in his fingers. 

‘^Ah, well ! why don’t you go on ? ” grumbled the 
gentle Eugene, in the sulkiest of tones. “ It is not so very 
amusing to sit here and wait for you.” 

While the imp was speaking, Lydie had answered her 
mother, and Boris had not heard what she said. 

A profound sadness at once seized him. Another twenty- 

3 


50 


SONIA. 


four hours without speaking to her. He looked through 
the half-open door into the next room. It was empty. 

Master Eugene finished his lesson in arithmetic. Just 
as the child, overjoyed at his escape, was about to rush out 
into the garden, Boris stopped him. 

^^Go ask your sister,’’ he said, in a voice that he 
struggled to make indifferent, if she means to take her 
lesson to-day.” 

Eugene disappeared. 

Lydia, go to your lesson ! ” the boy shouted, at the top 
of his voice, all through the house ; fancying that he thus 
accomplished the errand on which he was sent. 

Boris listened with all his ears. Not a sound in reply. 

Lydie ! ” repeated Eugene’s voice, still further off. 
^^Lydie ! I say, Lydie ! where on earth are you ? ” 

Boris heard no more. The house became profoundly still. 
He leaned from the window. 

The wind rustled the leaves gently ; a bird, with bits 
of wool or a feather in his beak, with which he was build- 
ing his nest on a dead branch among the green leaves, 
uttered an occasional joyous chirp. The young man 
thought of the simple white house which, with two or 
three acres of land, was his only patrimony. 

It is a nest, to be sure; but a very humble one!” 
And he sighed sadly. She will not go there with me,” 
he said at last, half aloud. And he took up the book they 
had read together, and listlessly turned over its leaves ; 
but he did not read it. The goldfinch fluttered to and fro 
past the window, and seemed with its busy little cries to 
be mocking the young man. 


SONIA. 


51 


Suddenly the door opened softly, and Lydie entered 
with her arms full of books. She pushed the door behind 
her ; and as it closed she came toward Boris with her face 
covered with blushes. 

“ Good-morning, Boris Ivanovitch,’’ she said. I am 
late, and I ask, your pardon.” 

She wore her ordinary morning dress. 

You are not going out, then?” stammered the young 
man. 

No, not just yet. We shall go and take tea with our 
neighbor to-night.” 

She seated herself at a desk, opened her grammar, and 
placed it in front of Boris. He looked at it, and at her, 
but could not speak. 

Will you begin by a &^e6?” she said, seeing that he 
was still silent. 

Mechanically he cast his eyes on the page before him ; 
then he lifted them again ; and as he did so met a swift 
glance from the young girl ; a glance which, brief as it 
was, was yet so full of sweetness and half-concealed tender- 
ness, that all his vague reveries assumed a tangible shape 
and hue. 

He took the girPs hand and pressed his burning lips 
upon it, while his eager eyes devoured her burning face. 

I love you, and you are not angry ? ” he said, after a 
few moments of silent intoxication. 

No, I am not angry ! ” she whispered. I told 
mamma that I did not wish to lose my lesson,” and her 
hand was not withdrawn from his loving clasp. “ But 
begin your dictee/^ she continued, for she may come at 
any moment.” 


62 


SONIA. 


With a desperate effort Boris read to the end of a sen- 
tence, pronouncing with difficulty words that conveyed no 
meaning to his own ears or eyes. 

The girFs irregular handwriting betrayed her agitation, ' 
but she did not once meet her teacher’s eyes. At the end 
of five minutes, still writing, she said, almost in a whisper : 

Come with us to-night to take tea with our neigh- 
bor ? ” 

If you wish it,” answered Boris. 

She lifted her eyes then, and smiled with that little 
triumphant air that so entirely suited her style of beauty. 

^^No,” she said; ‘‘you must stay here, and think of 
me!” 

“ You love me, then,” he whispered, as he leaned over 
her. 

“ I don’t know — perhaps 1 ” she answered, turning away. 
“ Go on — quick ! ” 

He resumed his dictee once more, but still held Lydie’s 
left hand imprisoned in his own. He did not understand 
a word of all he read. At intervals Madame Gor^line’s 
voice or that of the small Eugene was heard, and Lydie 
hurriedly snatched her hand away; but that peril over, 
our lovers exchanged a smile; and the hands were again 
clasped as if by magic. 

“ Oh, I have so many things to tell you ! ” murmured 
Boris, taking the exercise to correct its faults. “ This hour 
has fled like a dream!” 

“Not now — nor here. After dinner, when papa and 
mamma will take their nap — in the garden, near the spring. 
Will you be there?” 


SONIA. 


53 


Boris had only time to nod in acquiescence, and Madame 
Gor^line entered, looking for some trifle she had lost. 
After having searched every corner, she turned to her 
daughter. 

You have finished, Lydie, have you not?” she asked. 

Yes, mamma,” answered the girl, picking her books 
and papers up hastily. Thank you, sir,” she said, with 
a respectful courtesy to Boris, and she left the room with 
her mother. 


54 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER yi. 

AT THE SPRING. 

T oward five o’clock, he repaired to the place she 
had designated ; but Lydie had not yet arrived. 
He waited for her coming a long time, and just as he had 
given up all hope, he saw her approach, wearing her visit- 
ing costume and carrying her parasol. 

^^l am ready,” she said, ^‘and mamma is still asleep. 
When she wakes, I have told her maid to say that lam 
ready. We are thus secure while she makes her toilette; 
and when the carriage is at the door, little Sonia will come 
and call me.” 

Arranging the folds of her dress with the greatest care, 
lest she should tumble and crease it, she seated herself on 
a broad stone^ at a short distance from Boris. The spring 
itself was at the mouth of a picturesque ravine, and the 
hand of man had not marred its wonderful beauty by any 
attempt at improvements. The cool water fell in a clear 
crystal stream into a broad, shallow basin, and then over- 
fiowed the brim with a silvery tinkle on a bed of round, 
shining pebbles. Forget-me-nots and sweet-scented mints 
grew in profusion, and tall reeds bent over the brook as if 
to catch a glimpse of themselves in the limpid current. 
Nothing could be less pretentious than this simple spring, 
which supplied the prosaic inhabitants of the G§n^ral’s 
mansion with all the water that was needed. The flowers 


SONIA. 


55 


grouped about it, formed an appropriate framework for its 
picturesque loveliness, while the flickering shadow of the 
alder-bushes playing over the brown depths of the stream 
added another charm to the spot. 

Lydie was not dressed for this place. Her rustling silk 
robe, profusely trimmed, was nothin harmony with the 
rural scene, and with the intensely Russian aspect of the 
place. Boris did not notice this, however — his whole 
energies being concentrated on the words he was about to 
utter. 

Lydie Stepanovna,’’ he said, after a long silence, I 
have told you already that I love you. I am only twenty- 
one, of noble, but not distinguished birth. My father was 
a poor country gentleman. I have nothing, or next to 
nothing; but I am energetic and brave. I have studied 
conscientiously, and am willing to spend the rest of my 
life in work, and I am sure that I shall some day achieve 
something; but ray happiness depends entirely on your- 
self. You know now all the facts of my position — are you 
willing to take me as I am ? Will you become my wife?” 

This was what in good Russ is called coming to the 
point. For the first time Lydie’s hand was asked in 
marriage, and her heart beat high. This handsome youth 
stood before her, very pale, and so agitated that he could 
hardly speak. She was seventeen, and life seemed to her 
one long holiday. She answered without hesitation : 

Yes, I will.” 

Boris drew her close to his heart, and tears filled his 
eyes. 

^^Ah, Lydie,” he stammered, as he covered her pretty 


56 


SONIA. 


hands with kisses, now I have a heart to work ! You will 
be proud of me some day, I assure you ! 

The first moment of ecstasy over, and he remembered, 
with a sinking heart, that long, weary months and years 
must elapse before he could claim his fiancee. 

Your parents will- never give their consent ! 

I fear not,^^ murmured Lydie, with heightened color. 

But never mind — the day will come when you are rich 
and distinguished, and then they will ask nothing better 
for their daughter ! ” 

‘^My beloved ! — and you will wait with patience?” 

‘^Most certainly !” she answered, with all the smiling 
security of youth — the youth that knows nothing of the 
realities of life, its weariness, disappointments, and temp- 
tations. 

How many years will you wait ? ” 

Years ! ” cried the girl, not years, for then I should 
be an old woman.” 

^^You old, Lydie?” and Boris laughed as if the finger 
of Time would never be daring enough to mar the beauty 
of that fair face. 

^^But you do not really mean years, do you?” she 
persisted. 

Who knows, child ? If I could be sent abroad at the 
expense of the government, two or three years alone, would 
suffice to give me a reputation and a position. Ah, 
dearest, I Avould toil night and day to make you rich and 
happy,” and mutual oaths of fidelity were thereupon 
exchanged. 

Boris meant all that he said ; his soul was filled with 


SONIA. 


57 


the ardor of a neophyte. But she — she did not under- 
stand very clearly what she was promising. The future 
was so far off that the chains she assumed seemed as yet 
very light. In the meantime, Boris loved her. She had 
a slave, and she was a queen ! 

The rays of the sun pierced obliquely the heavy foliage 
overhanging the ravine. Sonia’s voice was heard afar off. 

‘^Mademoiselle ! mademoiselle! ’’she cried, “your mother 
is waiting for you.” ^ 

Lydie left Boris abruptly, with a last hurried caress, 
and quickly disappeared from his sight. 

Boris was alone ; he followed her slowly for a few steps, 
and then hesitated, went toward the spring and gathered 
a spray of the wild mint, rubbed it between his fingers 
and inhaled its perfume; then he seated himself and 
listened to the running water. A pebble rolled down at 
his feet. He looked up and saw against the blue sky the 
delicately chiselled profile of little Sonia. 

“What are you doing there?” asked Boris, uneasily; a 
little disturbed at the thought of how long she might have 
been ensconced in her elevated position. 

“ I am looking at you ! ” the child answered, as she ran 
down the rocky path. 

And in fact she was gazing at him rather than at where 
she was going. She stepped on a rolling stone, her foot 
turned, she uttered a cry of pain as she fell. Boris flew 
to help her. She was already standing up, but a stream 
of bright blood was running from her ankle on the yellow 
sand. 

“You have hurt yourself badly, I fear,” said Boris, 
kindly. 


58 


SONIA. 


“ No. It is Dothing/’ answered the girl, biting her lips 
to retain a childish sob. 

She took a step or two and then stopped. The blood 
continued to flow profusely. « 

^‘Wait; I am going to see the extent of the wound, 
said the young man. 

^^No, no; Boris Ivanovitch,” she answered, hastily, 
it is not worth the trouble.’^ 

Without listening to her, he lifted her and placed her 
on a grassy hillock near the basin. She made no more 
resistance; he then gently lifted the poor little wounded 
foot on his knee. A large gash was cut under the ankle 
just where the skin is most delicate. The blood poured 
out so profusely that Boris at first feared some dangerous 
lesion. Bringing some water in his hand, he carefully 
bathed the wound, removing several grains of gravel, and 
then bandaged it with his handkerchief. 

“ You must go to the house at once,^' he said, and put 
on a plaster.” 

Why?” answered Sonia, who was by no means timid 
by nature. It will cure itsdlf after a while. But I am 
very tired.” 

She stretched herself out a little on the turf, and sup- 
ported her head on her arm. She was very pale ; the 
wound had bled long enough to weaken her sadly. She 
closed her eyes, and Boris thought she had fainted. He 
bent over her; she lifted the lids slowly and painfully, but 
the grateful look in their blue depths went to the very 
heart of the young man. 

You are very good,” she said, softly. No one ever 
took care of me before.” 


SONIA. 


59 


But you have never been ill ? ” 

Oh, yes ; last year I had a bad fever.” 

^‘And no one nursed you ? ” 

“ No ; I lay near the stove, and old Martha gave me a 
drink sometimes.” 

‘^And you recovered under such treatment ? ” 

«Yes— ” 

Did no one come to see you ? ” 

The family were^not here. But that would not have 
made any difference. They never trouble themselves 
about us.” She closed her eyes. 

But the General ? ” 

Oh ! he is kind. But what can he do ? I love him 
so very much ! He does not scold me very often, and he 
never beats me. I love you, too ! ” 

Why ? ” said Boris, amused and interested by the 
quaintness of the child. 

Because you are good, too. You like white roses — ” 

Yes, to be sure,” answered the young man, somewhat 
astonished, I do like white roses ; but how did you find 
it out?” 

Because yesterday I saw you looking for a long time 
at a white rose that was half-withered, and that night I 
carried you a bunch of lovely fresh ones.” 

So it was you, then ? ” 

Yes, it was I! but that was not anything. There is 
a great bush at the end of the garden close by the 
servants’ quarters.” 

‘‘ I thank you very much,” said Boris, half sadly. 

She tried to rise, but her foot afforded her a very 


60 


SONIA. 


uncertain support. She would have fallen had he not 
caught her. 

You cannot walk/’ he said, and I shall carry you 
up the hill.” 

She said not a word, but lay quietly in the young man’s 
arms until they reached the top of the gentle ascent. 
When he put her down, she took his hand and kissed it 
with passionate ardor. 

Will you stop ? ” said Boris, impatiently, little disposed 
to accept this mark of gratitude and submission in which 
he saw only the traces of the old servitude. 

She dropped his hand, and limped along at his side 
toward the house. 

As they reached the terrace, Lydie, with her mother, in 
gorgeous attire, were about entering the carriage. 

“Here is a little lame creature,” said Boris, without 
addressing either one of the two in particular. “ She has 
hurt her foot quite seriously, and the wound should be at 
once dressed.” 

“Ah ! yes ; I dare say,”^ said Madame Gordline, button- 
ing her glove. “ If you listened to all their stories, there 
would always be something to be done for them. Wash 
it with fresh water, Sonia, and to-morrow it will be all 
right again. Good-night, Boris Ivanovitch ; you have 
made a great mistake not to come with us.” 

The carriage drove oif. Lydie had said nothing. 
Shielded by her parasol, she cast a tender glance at her 
friend. When the door of the court-yard closed behind 
the equipage, Boris looked at the little girl, who still 
lingered at his side. 


SONIA. 


61 


‘^Come, Sonia/’ he said, will dress your wound 
myself. I am not very experienced in such matters, but 
still it is better than nothing.” 

He took the child to his room ; made her take a seat on 
the foot of his bed ; made bandages of a pocket-handker- 
chief or two which he deliberately tore in strips, to the 
great distress of Sonia, and made the poor, wounded foot 
very comfortable. 

Now you may go,” he said, when he had finished, 
pushing her gently toward the door. 

Oh ! Boris Ivanovitch,” she said, with tears in her 
voice, you seem like my mother ! ” 

She left the room with these words, while Boris laughed 
heartily at the originality of the idea. 

The day, however, had been a very happy one for him. 


62 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER yiL 

NEEDLES AND THREADI 

F or the next two weeks, Boris was in the seventh 
heaven. 

Nothing that was going on in the outside world could 
penetrate the blissful calm by which he was surrounded. 
He vaguely accepted the fact that certain individuals of 
the family, beside Lydie, existed. He continued to be 
busy with Eugene; but after study hours were over, had 
any one asked the subject of his lessons, Boris could have 
given no satisfactory reply. 

His manner was much the same as usual, but he him- 
self was altogether changed, and realized little of what 
was passing about him. 

Fortunately Lydie had preserved her common sense. 
Love in her life was but one element the more, while in 
the young man it had transformed his whole existence. 
She was as gay as usual ; she sang, not always in tune, 
romances to which Boris listened with a thrill of delight, 
and to please him paid especial attention to her toilette 
that was always careful and fresh. 

To another person still, life had assumed a new aspect. 
Little Sonia herself had entered into a new world. Until 
then forgotten or ill-treated, she had never heard a kind 
word from any one, save from Stepane Petrovitch, who 
had simply treated her with the indifferent good-nature of 


SONIA. 


63 


a kindly-hearted man, while Boris had remembered that she 
had feelings and a heart. To him she was an intelligent 
creature, suffering and friendless, with whom he could 
talk — whom he could pity and console. The man who 
had spoken thus to her became a god in her eyes. In this 
little girPs heart, under the coarse chemise that covered 
her sunburnt shoulders, suddenly a superb flower burst into 
bloom — she learned and understood goodness and generosity. 

Boris was her only thought. She could do very little 
for him — merely arrart'ge his chamber morning and even- 
ing — filling his vases with fresh flowers — these were the 
merest trifles, to be sure ; but this was all that she could do. 

Until now her gypsy-like nature had rebelled against 
any sedentary or indoor toil ; but one day perceiving a 
large rip in the vest of the young man, she carried the 
garment to Madame Goreliue^s maid, begging her to 
repair it. 

This soubrette, with high-cheeked bones, hated Boris : 
first, because he was a Tutor; next, because he had never 
looked at her, and she piqued herself on being very pretty, 
notwithstanding her pronounced Tartar type. She dis- 
missed little Sonia in great disgust. 

^^Do you think,’’ she said, ^Hhat I have nothing better 
to do than to spend my time mending a Tutor’s coat?” 

But it is torn ! ” cried Sonia, ready to weep. 

^^Mend it yourself, then, if you love this Tutor so 
much.” 

But I do not know how to sew.” 

Learn, then!” said the woman, with a sneer. 

‘^Lend me a needle and thread?” 


64 


SONIA. 


^^Not at all; go and buy them with the wages your 
dear G^n4ral gives you ! ” 

No needles could be purchased in the village, and it was 
not time for the peddler to make his monthly visit. With 
a swelling heart, Sonia, with the vest on her arm, went to 
beg a needle of old Martha, the cook, the woman who had 
nursed her in a careless sort of way through her illness, 
and who, without loving her, treated her less badly than 
did the other servants. 

Martha Nicolaievna, lend me a needle and thread?’^ 
What to do?^^ grumbled the cook. 

To mend this vest of Boris Ivanovitch.’^ 

Go to the devil with your Boris Ivanovitch ! Let him 
mend his own vests ! There was no need of his coming 
here to bother us. Yesterday he wore t\vo pair of boots, 
and I have to polish them. He told me to do it just as if 
he was master here.^’ 

‘^Give them to me, Martha Nicolaievna! I will do 
them ! ’’ cried Sonia, in a state of great delight. 

^^Very well! There they are. You can do them 
every day. I was a great fool not to think of it before !^^ 

From that day forth the young man’s boots were always 
immaculate and shining, and were always ready for him, 
standing in a corner of his room. 

Still Sonia had no needle, and it was torture to her to 
see him wear the vest in which the rip was sure to grow 
larger under the hand of the laundress. She looked 
through every crack in the wooden floors of the house 
until she found the much-coveted needle. To procure the 
thread with which to sew was a more difficult matter. 


SONIA. 


65 


Selecting a moment, when the chambermaid was carrying 
on an absorbing flirtation with her master^s valet, Sonia 
took possession of some bits of black and white cotton, 
which she wound on a card and bore off in triumph. 
Alas ! then only, to her profound dismay, did she discover 
that she was utterly ignorant of the science of mending. 

With resolute determination, she went to a secluded cor- 
ner of the garden ; she tore out a piece from the hem of her 
poor little skirt, and- tried to sew it in again. Her work 
was utterly hideous. Discouraged, she burst into tears — 
but weeping was of little avail. She made new efforts, 
and by degrees, in the course of several days, without the 
assistance of any one, she could mend a tear in a present- 
able manner. 

Triumphant then, she took advantage of a day that 
Boris was away to devote herself to the precious vest. 
Alas ! he did not even notice what had happened to it; but 
every time that Sonia saw him wearing the vest her heart 
leaped high with joy. 

“ I must learn to sew,^^ she said to herself over and over 
again. When the peddler arrived, she bought from him 
all that she needed ; and from that day forth the child was 
to be seen crouched near the window sewing and ripping, 
hemming and stitching, receiving a word of good advice 
from one, a jest from another — and kicks and thumps from 
all, but happy throughout it all ; happy in being useful to 
her master — for Boris was her chosen master. 

The servants soon discovered this predilection. The 
child and her protector were held equally in contempt by 
all these worthy persons. It was especially the hours for 
4 


66 


SONIA. 


meals that were consecrated to these charming jests — so 
much so that Sonia often preferred a bit of plain bread, 
eaten with a raw onion, in a sheltered corner of the garden. 
She was the happiest child in the world, when to this 
rough fare she could add a cup of milk from the dairy. 

Boris, of course, knew nothing of all this; but he 
unconsciously became more and more attached to this 
innocent little creature, whose deep-blue eyes were always 
searching for him. He grew accustomed to seeing her 
come into his room every evening, to bring him a glass of 
water and to ask his orders for the morning. 

He had acquired a habit of drinking milk in the morn- 
ing, and as soon as he awoke he had but to utter her name 
aloud, when he saw her come in, with a sweet smile upon 
her lips and a tender solicitude in her eyes, bearing most 
carefully a brimming cup. More serious in his character 
than the General, his affection for the child was more pro- 
found. He pitied her for the lonely, desolate life that he 
felt was hers, although he knew little or nothing of its 
details. 

One morning, however, he penetrated in some degree the 
secrets of this sad and monotonous existence. When Sonia 
handed him his milk, he saw on her arm some purplish 
livid marks. 

^^How did you do that?’' he asked, compassionately. 

I did not do it,” she said, dropping her lids over her 
eyes swelling with tears. 

“Who then?” 

She was silent. He took her hand to draw her toward 
him ; she uttered a sharp cry of pain. He rose abruptly, 


SONIA. 


67 


and, with the greatest care, turned her sleeve of coarse 
gray linen up to her shoulder, and beheld her arm bleed- 
ing and bruised. The shoulder was also injured, so much 
so that the child could not bear the slightest touch of his 
compassionate hand. 

Who did this?” he asked, with some austerity. 
“ Tell me at once — I must know ! ” 

Do not speak of it to my mistress. She will beat me ! ” 

Good heavens ! ”'cried Boris, in horror. Your mis- 
tress would beat you, do you say? Who did this, I 
ask?” 

The cook.” 

And for what?” demanded Boris, with compressed lips. 

All his generous blood seethed and boiled ; and had the 
miserable wretch been there, his life would not have been 
worth sixpence. 

But the child was inflexible until Boris said to her, 
touching the right chord at last : If you do not tell me, 
I will never love you again ! ” 

Her tongue was then untied. She told her friend and 
protector that the evening before she had been to a place 
far down the river — a small inlet — where white water- 
lilies bloomed, whose great satiny, fragrant flowers she 
dearly loved. She came home laden with them, having 
secured them with great difficulty, and by wading knee- 
deep into the water; on entering the kitchen — the long 
stems trailing after her — one of them caught in the handle 
of an earthen jar which contained the cook’s favorite soup. 
He flew at her in a violent rage, and tore her flowers from 
her, stamping upon them and ruining them beyond redemp- 


68 


SONIA. 


tion. Through her tears and sobs she called him some 
name, in her half-childish language. The brute snatched 
a quantity of the long flexible lily stems — solid as if they 
^vere of caoutchouc — and with them severely beat the girl. 

^^But I did not utter a sound, Boris Ivanovitch,^^ she 
said, her breast swelling with pride at this recital of her 
wrongs. You were close by — it was just before tea, and 
I was afraid that you would hear me.^^ 

“ You should have called me to come, my child.” 

Oh, no ! had you seen him, you would have killed 
him outright.” 

The child said this with such enthusiasm, and with a 
faith so profound, that the young man snatched her in his 
arms. She shuddered with the pain that his embrace 
gave her, but she was radiant with happiness, and the 
tears that the torture she had endured had failed to draw 
from her eyes, now fell in torrents on her thin cheeks. 

^^Ah ! master,” she whispered, “ I am ready to die for 
you ! How can I serve you ? ” 

Boris was no less moved than she ; he released her, and 
looked at her while she dried her eyes with her coarse 
linen sleeve. 

She is a human being,” he said to himself ; and, 
thank God, there are no longer any serfs in Russia. If 
she has been thus treated now, what would have become 
of her in those old days ! ” 

His thoughts then turned toward Lydie. For him 
Lydie was as good as she was beautiful. Of this he had 
not the smallest doubt — she would take the child under 
her powerful protection — it would be only necessary to 
say one word to her. This idea restored his serenity. 


SONIA. 


69 


“ Be at ease/^ he said to the child ; this will never 
happen again. 

But do not speak to madame, dear master, for she will 
never forgive me for having complained to you.’^ This 
word master’’ from the orphan’s lips sounded like a 
caress. She will beat me again ! ” 

Has she ever whipped you ? ” asked Boris, who sud- 
denly felt his intuitive antipathy for Madame Goreline 
assume gigantic proportions. 

‘^Did she ever whip me, do you ask?. Ah! many, 
many times.” 

Very well; I will say nothing to madame.” 

To whom then ? ” 

To Miss Lydie.” 

Sonia shook her head sadly. 

Beg her, at least, to say nothing to her mother.” 

Do not be afraid, my child ; she will say nothing, I 
am quite sure, if I beg her not.” 

That will do no good, dear master; it would be much 
better to say nothing.” 

But the cook will treat you ill again, I fear.” 

Ah I well, what difference will that make?” 

Boris was astonished at this stoical indifference — the 
indifference cff a true liussian. The poor child continued : 

It will not hurt me very long, and I can endure the 
pain, now that you have made me so happy — so very 
happy. But why, dear master, do you not drink your 
milk?” 

I do not care for it ; drink it yourself.” 

She emptied the glass with avidity; her unfortunate 


70 


SONIA. 


encounter with the cook had deprived her of her appetite 
at the time when her supper was ready for her in the 
kitchen. 

Do you have plenty to eat generally ? ” asked Boris, 
struck by a sudden thought. 

He then learned all that Sonia had so long endured in 
silence. Burning with indignation, he listened to the 
story of her wrongs; and the recollection of his mother 
came to him like a breath of fresh air in a fiery furnace. 

Far from this cruel, brutal house was a modest king- 
dom, governed with a firm and gentle hand by his wise 
mother. The peasant women who performed the out-door 
duties of this simple home, and the old cook, who was 
half deaf, might quarrel among themselves; but, under 
the rule of the kindly-hearted Varvara Petrovna, the 
cook, no one of them would have dared to ill-treat a 
defenceless child. 

The excellent old creature, who never had been known 
to be in a passion, might possibly have turned upon a 
criminal, and then expiated her offence by long and sin- 
cere prayers poured from an honest and fervent heart. 

When Sonia ceased to speak, Boris, until then silent, 
said gently : 

^^This shall be all changed, I promise you; and if there 
is no other way — 

^^What then?^^ asked the child, anxiously, when he 
hesitated. 

I will take you to my mother,’^ he answered, reso- 
lutely. 

The child fell at his feet without a word of thanks, 


SONIA. 


71 


and prostrate before him, with her face in the dust, wept 
and prayed from the depths of her heart to the God of 
whom she knew nothing save the name. No syllable 
escaped her lips, for she knew of none which could express 
her intense gratitude and joy. But this hour marked an 
era in her life. 

She lay at the feet of Boris a slave still, notwithstand- 
ing her disfranchisement; but when he raised her, she was 
free. Her liberated soul had thrown off its shackles. 
In the eyes of him whom she called master she saw 
the fair light of freedom — freedom from misery and 
tyranny ! 


72 


SONIA. 


CHAPTEE yilL 

PRINCE ARMIANOF. 

P EEOCCUPIED with thoughts of his protegee, Boris 
expedited the lessons of his pupil that he might the 
sooner be in readiness to receive Lydie, and awaken her 
sympathies for the sorrows of the little peasant girl. 

Lydie finally appeared ; her books in her hand, as was 
her custom. But on the first words spoken by the young 
man, she interrupted him with an air of annoyance. 

have nothing to do with the quarrels of our ser- 
vants,^^ she said ; and mamma has forbidden me to inter- 
fere with them in any way.” 

‘'And do you never do anything that your mother for- 
bids? ” said Boris, in a low voice, with a smile. 

Lydie was charming when she pouted like a spoiled 
child. 

“ That has nothing to do with it ! ” she answered, with 
a deep blush. Then turning her eyes full on Boris, who 
had snatched her hand and was covering it with kisses, 
she laughed, as she added : 

"How in earnest you are! Come, sir! Begin your 
didh, if you please.” 

Boris dictated for some few minutes ; then, between two 
of his phrases, he resumed his idea. 

" This child is frightfully unhappy here — your mother 
dislikes her.” 


SONIA. 


73 


Eugene put his head into the half-open door. 

What do you want? asked Boris, impatiently. 

My balloon,’’ answered the child, with a teasing laugh. 

Find it, and be off with you ! ” 

Eugene spent five minutes in rummaging in all the 
corners, but did not find the balloon, for the most excellent 
reason that the object in question was lying tranquilly in 
the centre of the avenue, where he had just left it. 

Do let us alone, and be quiet ! ” cried Lydie, out of all 
patience. shall say to mamma — ” 

What will you say to mamma?” interrupted Eugene, 
looking at his sister with the same teasing impertinence. 

That you prevent me from taking my Icvsson ! ” replied 
Lydie, coloring to the very roots of her hair as she spoke. 

‘^Oh! is that all? Well! I do not care,” answered 
the little boy ; and going out he closed the door, which he 
had found open, most carefully behind him. Mamma! 
come and play with me ! ” he shouted, loudly, as he passed 
the windows. 

Call Sonia — ” 

Sonia is stupid; she always plays better than I do; 
and I do not want her. You are much more amusing ; 
for you always make mistakes !” 

Bad boy ! ” 

^^Come, mamma, come this moment!” 

Madame Gor^line could not resist this adored voice; 
and at once followed her son into the innermost depths of 
the garden. 

The two young people were now entirely alone, and 
were silent for a few minutes. 


74 


SONIA. 


I am afraid that he suspects something,” said Lydie, 
finally. 

Boris had had the same idea, but he was careful not to 
say so, lest he should make the young girl anxious. 

Possibly,” he replied, with a reassuring smile. But 
you know that he is given to teasing, and we ought to 
find no fault with him now, that he has at last left us 
alone,” and Boris drew the girFs fair head down upon his 
shoulders. She made no resistance. In a moment more, 
Boris spoke again : 

Now that we are together, undisturbed for a moment, 
let us talk seriously about this little girl.” 

“Upon my word,” answered Lydie, “you are very 
strange. Here we have a few moments to ourselves, and 
you spend them in talking of that little simpleton ! ” 

“She is very unhappy, Lydie,” answered Boris, with 
something of the same gentleness he would have employed 
in soothing a refractory child. “No one likes her here! ” 

“And why should any one like her?” said Lydie, 
abruptly. “As for me, I can’t endure her.” 

“ Why not ? ” asked Boris, astonished, and somewhat 
wounded, loosening his clasp on the hand he held in his. 

Without knowing exactly how, or why, Lydie felt that 
she had shocked the young man. She had a confused idea 
that she had made a mistake. So instead of giving any 
reason 'why she disliked the little peasant, she snatched at 
the first pretext; one which, after aU, served her better 
than any other would have done. 

“You love her too well,” she exclaimed, “and I am 
jealous 1 ” 


SONIA. 


75 


Boris laughed and again took her hand. 

If I love her too well, you must love her also. We 
will share that affection between us, and will see that she 
is well taken care of. Will you do your part ?^^ 

“ We will see,’' she answered, with her adorable smile. 

Now tell me again that you love n>e1 ” 

With this heading to the chapter, the hour came to an 
end swiftly enough, and there was no more question of 
Sonia that day. 

An hour after dinner that day, about six o’clock, a 
caliche drawn by four superb black horses, with glittering 
harness, drew up before the door of Madame Gor6line. 
The servants hurried to receive the unexpected guests; 
but before the youthful valet, with a startled face, could 
touch the door of the carriage, the visitor had already 
leaped from the equipage and ordered his coachman to 
drive to the end of the court-yard. 

‘^Are the G4n4ral and Madame at home ? ” asked the 
new-comer. 

I do not know, sir — that is to say, sir — I believe that 
they are taking a nap after their dinner,” stammered the 
servant, utterly bewildered by the magnificent beard of 
the coachman, and the glory of the carriage. ‘‘Whom 
shall I announce ? ” 

“ No one just now,” answered the young man, with a 
laugh ; “ but when the G^n^ral and Madame are awake, 
tell them that the Prince Armianof has taken the liberty 
of going into the garden, there to wait until it be their 
pleasure to receive* him.” 

Thereupon the stranger turned his steps toward the 


76 


SONIA. 


garden, and opening the door in the wall, which divided 
the garden from the court-yard, soon disappeared among 
the linden trees^ 

It was just at this moment that Lydie left the spring ; 
where she was in the habit of granting a t^te-a-t6te to 
Boris, every day after dinner, while her parents slept. 

The lovers had been discussing their future ; and Boris, 
as often happens with a strong, passionate nature, which — 
longing for the ideal — finds but little solace in common- 
place realities, had been overwhelmed with sudden melan- 
choly, in strange contrast to his usual confident light- 
heartedness. 

Now Ijydie feared and detested any such moods, whose 
divine pain and sadness she was far from understanding. 

She left the spring, therefore, extremely out of humor 
with her fianc^, and suddenly, as she turned a sharp angle 
in the path, she found herself opposite a handsome young 
man, whose beauty, of an oriental type, was really almost 
startling, and whose toilette was irreproachable. 

Moscow and the winter — with its sledges, its balls and 
theatres — forgotten now for more than two months, came 
back to her memory. She stopped short, in some confusion 
at the searching glances of those gazelle-like eyes, but 
she knew at once that this gentleman was their neighbor, 
of whom she had heard so much said, but whom she had 
not yet seen. 

Two generations on Russian soil had not obliterated the 
purity of the Circassian type in the family of the Prince 
Armianof. His sister was the most beautiful woman at 
the court, while he was considered the most faultlessly 


SONIA. 


77 


handsome man in St. Petersburg; consequently, when he 
said, in a most musical voice, — 

“ Mademoiselle Gor^line, if I am not mistaken ? Permit 
me to present myself — the Prince Armianof — Lydie felt 
almost overwhelmed, but answered with perfect grace 
and courtesy, though with a heightened color. 

Permit me, sir, to inform my mother that you are 
here.’’ 

Then she hurried away, somewhat agitated, for this 
apparition from the social wmrld disturbed the magic 
circle with which she was surrounded by the love of 
Boris. 

The General and his wife were soon on their feet. 
Stepane P^trovitch hastened to the garden to embrace the 
son of his old friend, whom he had known in his baby- 
hood. On seeing that elegant cavalier, from whose 
irreproachable costume came the fragrance of Parma 
violets, he stood still ; for how could he address that 
splendid-looking fellow in a familiar off-hand manner? 
Plow could he accost him by his childish name? No, it 
w^as quite impossible. But the Prince left him no time 
for consideration. 

General,” he said, coming to meet him eagerly, ^^do 
you not remember me? Do you not remember how you 
used to spoil me ? ” 

He put his arms around the old Gdn^ral with the same 
affection he had shown when, as a boy, he climbed upon 
his knees, while the General, much touched, exclaimed : 

Sacha ! my dear Sacha ! ” But suddenly the idea 
came to him that this familiar diminutive was by no means 


78 


SONIA. 


appropriate to the heir of the Armianofs. “Your high- 
ness/^ he added. 

“ Pshaw ! Highness indeed ! Call me Sacha, as you 
did in old times, or I shall think that you love me no 
longer. I love you still. I loved you as Colonel and as 
Gdndral. I love you still. Is it to my moustache that 
you object?^’ 

“Ah ! Sacha, how long it is since I saw you!” answered 
the G4n6ral, shaking his head half sadly. “You were 
but that tall then,” and he pointed to a swaying carnation 
in the flower-border. “And now you are a man ! I hear 
much of you. It seems that you are a great favorite at 
court.” 

“ Nonsense ! ” said the Prince, gayly. “All that is only 
for the winter, and I did not come into the country to 
think or talk of St. Petersburg ; I have had quite enough 
of it in the last six months. Let us talk of yourself and 
your family. Is Madame Gordline quite well ? I have 
just caught a glimpse of a most charming young lady — 
your daughter, of course. I congratulate you I ” 

“Yes; she is our idol! our beauty! our Lydie!” 
replied the old man, radiant with delight. “ She is as 
good, too, as she is lovely — ” 

“ I am quite sure of that,” answered Armianof, gayly, 
as he took the G^n^raFs arm, who, much pleased with his 
guest and with himself, and altogether in the most amiable 
frame of mind, called Sonia and sent her in search of his 
longest pipe. He offered one to the Prince, who refused, 
with a smile, and lighted his cigar instead. 

The appearance of Madame Gor^line arrested further 


SONIA. 


79 


demonstrations from her husband, and at the approach of 
this lady, adorned in honor of her guest in a silk dress and 
new cap, the conversation changed, and lost for a time 
its confidential tone. Vainly did the young man try to 
bring back the gayety of the G^n^ral. A total change 
came over him. 

Madame Gor^line took the weight of the conversation 
upon herself, and thought she was doing just the right 
thing in asking news of the gay world of St. Petersburg, 
to which she had formerly belonged, for unfortunately for 
her husband, she was of good family. This fact briefly 
explains all the misery of the old G6n6ral ; she had decided 
to marry him only because there was no one else, as her 
beauty was not enough to counterbalance her want of 
fortune and lack of all charm of character. 

Lydie at last appeared on the scene, with the announce- 
ment that tea was ready, and they all, with the addition 
of Boris and Eugene, were soon assembled around the 
table, laden with fruit, hot rolls, cake and cream ; in short 
with all those things which constitute a Russian country 
tea. Compelled by her narrow income to manage with 
the strictest economy in town, Madame Gor^line lived on 
a grand scale in the country, where the j^roducts of garden 
and farm cost almost nothing. 

Armianof was at once struck by the sympathetic coun- 
tenance of Boris, and the two fell into conversation. 

The young student, aware of the position, the family and 
the wealth of the Prince, and fearing a rival, held him- 
self at first on the defensive, but he could not long resist 
the kind advances of the new-comer. The two young 


80 


SONIA. 


men therefore talked freely together, and Boris, interested 
in the conversation, did not notice that, while they talked, 
the Prince never took his eyes from Lydie. 

The young girl, however, was not so blind. The color 
in her cheeks became more brilliant; the white dress she 
wore was wonderfully becoming. Every attitude she 
assumed was intended to please, but to this fact Boris was 
singularly blind. 

An unfortunate word of Madame Gor^line marred the 
harmony of the evening. Exhilarated by the unusual 
agreeability of the circle around him, the G4n4ral mingled 
freely in the conversation, and even went so far as to 
occasionally give utterance to some of those truths which 
the name of Prudhomme has made illustrious. While he 
was attempting to lay before his young listeners his idea 
in lucid terms, his better-half, hoping to display her 
superiority, uttered the following phrase, which was only 
the habitual refrain of her discourse : 

You would do better to be silent, my love, for you 
never utter anything but foolishness.’^ 

Very well, my dear,” stammered the old man, humili- 
ated and startled, but too well drilled to rebel, or to reply 
as he ought to have done. 

The effect upon the Prince was most disastrous. His 
gayety and good-humor instantly fled. He turned an 
interrogative glance on Boris, who had great difficulty in 
restraining a compassionate smile. 

But no one looked surprised. Eugene ate on with 
undiminished appetite; Lydie, calm and undisturbed, 
moved the teacups on the tray, while Madame Gor6line 
smiled upon them all with the most satisfied expression. 


SONIA. 


81 


We will discuss these points later, at our leisure, my 
dear General/’ said the Prince, placing his handsome well- 
kept hand on the large freckled one of the mortified old 
man. But I agree with you entirely.” 

Most assuredly,” added Boris, looking at the Prince 
with his clear, honest gray eyes. 

I am quite ready to listen to you, if you will both do 
me the honor of visiting my bachelor quarters, where I 
shall be most happy^to receive you. If you love flowers, 
mademoiselle,” he said, turning to Lydie, ^Ghese gentle- 
men can bring you a bouquet of fine roses, which my 
gardener is very proud of having acclimated.” 

Lydie, coloring with pleasure, answered with a smile, 
and very soon after Armianof took leave of his hosts. 

I shall count on seeing you. Monsieur Grebof,” he 
said to the young student. 

Thank you. Prince,” Boris answered. I shall call 
upon you with the greatest pleasure.” 

Armianof jumped into his superb carriage, to the great 
admiration of the servants and the peasants who had 
gathered around to see him depart, and was soon lost to 
the sight of the gaping crowd. 

“ How handsome he is ! ” cried Madame Gor^line, as 
she hurried to the dining-room to extinguish the super- 
fluous candles. 

Boris assured himself that the General was with his 
wife, and then went in search of his fiancee to say good- 
night to her. 

^^Ah ! yes, very handsome — to be sure,” mechanically 
repeated the G6n6ral, still absorbed by the rebuff he had 
5 


82 


SONIA. • 


received — accustomed to them nevertheless as he was. 

But why did you speak to me like that, in the presence 
of strangers ? ” 

Do you wish me to repeat to you that you never say 
anything but foolishness?’^ she answered, roughly, as if 
she were throwing a stone at a timid dog. ‘^You had 
better amuse yourself with reeling off your nonsense to 
Boris, and let the Prince occupy himself with Lydie ! ” 

Well ! he looked at her enough, certainly,” answered 
the good man, whose heart grew warm at the thought of 
this cherished daughter. 

‘^That was well enough,” answered his wife, sharply; 
“ but the next time the Prince comes, try to have more 
sense. That would be an excellent match for Lydie.” 

Yes, dear, I will do my best in regard to it.” 

You will do better not to meddle with the affair in 
any way. For with your usual want of tact — ” 

Here she left the room, and her w^ords were lost in the 
distance; but her husband did not need to hear the end 
of her phrase to appreciate it. 

During this conversation Boris, on the terrace, had 
found a moment to approach Lydie, and to whisper in 
her ear. 

Lydie, I adore you ! Say a kind word to me. I have 
not dared even to look at you this wdiole evening ! ” 

You were very wise,” she answered, as she permitted 
him to take her hand. Had he seen anything, it would 
have been fatal ! ” 

It was not of her fianc4 that Lydie dreamed that night. 


' SONIA. 


83 


CHAPTER IX. 


AN EXPLOSION 


/ 



ORELINE and Boris made the promised visit on 


VA the Prince, and he himself soon acquired the habit 
of coming to the G^atoFs two or three times each week. 

He was very marked in his attentions to Lydie. Boris 
saw this, and was more than once on the point of telling 
his rival the real state of things. He had an accurate 
appreciation of the young man^s loyalty, and felt certain 
that he would relinquish his devotion as soon as he under- 
stood the truth. 

But there w^as a certain element of indecision in this 
character of Boris which prevented him from taking so 
decided a step, and one which might lead to dangerous 
results : what would Lydie’s parents think ? And he 
resigned himself to waiting. 

In a month more they would return to Moscow, and he 
was certain that the Prince would not follow them there. 

Of course, the Prince could, if he pleased, make a 
formal demand for the young girFs hand before the expira- 
tion of this period — ^^and then it would be time enough,^’ 
said Boris to himself, and thus allowed the days to slip 
away. 

During all this time Lydie had made certain reflections, 
and arrived at her own conclusions. She still loved Boris. 
His noble face and his passionate love for her had lost 


84 


SONIA. 


nothing of their charm, but — she had found a point of 
comparison ; and how could the poor student hold his own 
on entering the lists with this brilliant stranger — this 
accomplished man of the world — who, after having known 
all the ladies of the court, yet laid his heart at her feet ! 

In her meditations she had not yet gone the length of 
saying even to herself, that the title of the Princess Armi- 
anof, was better than that of Madame Gr^bof, but before 
her eyes floated a mirage — a whirl of superb apartments — 
rich toilettes — flashing jewels, and court-balls; these last 
t\Vo words quickened the beating of her heart. She saw the 
scene through a sort of golden mist — laces, diamonds and 
cachemires, music and perfume; and in the background, 
on a glittering throne, the imperial family speaking to 
the Prince, as they would some day speak to the Princess 
Armiauof. 

Here her wandering thoughts stopped ; but four years 
of waiting seemed very long, and she asked herself, with 
terrified misgivings, if, at the end of those four years, 
Boris would be in any better position than to-day, or if he 
would be in receipt of an income as large as that of her 
father; for the girl had no idea of the value of things. 

Each day the lesson hour found her calmer and more 
self-possessed; the furtive kisses of her lover no longer 
quickened her pulse or agitated her : she received them as 
a matter of course. 

He dared not ask a question,, but his heart sank within 
him, as he realized that did he even succeed in amassing 
a fortune, that he could never give her the position in the 
great world which he saw was her ambition. 


SONIA. 


85 


The influence exercised by Madame Gor^line may be 
easily divined. Twenty times in the day did she say to 
her daughter ^Gvhen you are a Princess and these 
words left their imprint as ineffaceably as water dropping 
perpetually on stone. 

The G^n^raPs ambition was not aroused : the marriage 
seemed to him very natural, and quite charming — not 
because his daughter would become a great lady, but 
because she would then spend six months of the year so 
near him, that he could see her daily. 

No care was taken to conceal from Boris these plans. for 
Lydie’s future. He listened silently with a terrible heart- 
ache, looking at the girl sometimes, hoping to read some 
consolation in her eyes ; but she would turn them away, 
and he rarely succeeded in meeting them. 

With a sort of animal sagacity Sonia had discovered 
that her master was unhappy. She overwhelmed him 
with all sorts of tender cares, but could not succeed in 
dissipating his melancholy. 

She had ceased speaking to him, and contented herself 
with following him with her eyes, which had an expres- 
sion like that of a whipped dog, and brightened only 
when he looked at her, or uttered her name. She had 
abandoned her former habit of spontaneous services in the 
house : formerly she had rendered them to every one, and 
received, as her only reward, abuse for her awkwardness 
and incapacity ; but since she had changed, and was no 
longer prompt to run here and there with active feet and 
untiring fingers, she was missed by every one. 

‘^Why are you never here when you are needed?” 
some one said to her, roughly. 


86 


SONIA. 


You have told me a thousand times I was good for 
nothing/^ she answered, and blows rained like hail on that 
weak and slender body. 

You are really intolerable/^ said Madame Gor^line to 
her one day. 

On that day His Excellency, the G^n^ral, was not in the 
most amiable frame of mind. His son, whom he wor- 
shipped — Master Eugene — out of temper because he was 
waked too early, had commenced the day by offering a 
great affront to his mother. 

She spoiled him, it is true, but only at her own times 
and seasons, and now promptly administered to him several 
cuffs on his ears, which had not only the result of infuri- 
ating the two against each other, but also against the entire 
world around them. 

After having bidden Boris keep Eugene hard at work, 
she w^ent to her room in a state of intense exasperation to 
make her toilette. 

Sonia, bringing in a huge pitcher of water, had pricked 
her foot with a pin on the floor, and starting, had dropped 
the pitcher, inundating the room. The water ran under 
the bed, saturating the curtains. With the utmost delib- 
eration Sonia sat down on the floor and drew out the pin, 
which had gone deeply into her naked foot. 

“Now just look at her!^ cried Madame Goreline, in a 
fury; “instead of trying to repair the mischief she has 
done, she thinks only of her foot. Will you go for the 
sponge and wipe up that water, stupid ? 

Sonia ran for the sponge and quickly returned, but she 
had forgotten to bring a bucket, and the water in the 


SONIA. 


87 


meantime had conquered more territory, and had reached 
the other side of the bed and saturated a silk dress, the 
folds of which hung down from the couch where it lay, 
and marred its beauty irretrievably. 

The lady’s anger passed all bounds. I will not have 
you here any longer ! ” she exclaimed, in a fury. Leave 
the house : you shall not stay here another night. You 
are of no earthly use, and ruin everything you touch ! Go 
away ! ” 

‘^Madame! madame! where shall I go?” said the 
child, tearless, but in a trembling voice. She rarely shed 
tears. 

What do I care where you go ? Go away from here, 
go away from the village, go anywhere that I shall not 
see you. You are not worth the bread you eat I 

Madame Goreline’s fury was abated, but her eyes were 
full of firm determination as she spoke. 

Madame, no one wants me. I am an orphan. If you 
send me away, I have nowhere but the forest to go to, and 
there the wolves will eat me.” 

“ Go where you choose, only take care that I never see 
you again,” answered the lady, cold and unmoved. 

‘^You are doing a wicked act, madame. God will 
punish you ! ” said the child, looking at her mistress with 
a defiant expression. 

If I find you here, to-morrow,” cried Madame Gor4- 
line, passionately, '^I will have you soundly whipped. 
Your mother did not belong to me, and you have no claim 
on me. Go away ! ” 

God will punish you ! ” repeated Sonia, slowly, as she 


88 


SONIA. 


left the room with her head held proudly, and with her 
heart full of burning indignation. Her cheeks were scarlet, 
and her eyes were blazing. She would have killed 
Madame Gor^line without remorse had she found a weapon 
near at hand. Fortunately there was none there. 

She went to find Boris, hoping that he was in his room, 
and that she could at once tell him all that had taken 
place, but the tutor was with his pupil in the school-room. 

Without a look or a word to the servants, who were 
teasing and laughing at her for her misadventure, she 
quietly went out, and after taking from some secret hid- 
ing-place the few tattered garments which belonged to 
her, and making of them a small bundle, she took a seat 
near the gate, the place where beggars usually sat, and 
waited until Boris was at liberty. Then she meant to ask 
counsel and protection from him. 

Eugene had heard his mother’s injunctions to his tutor 
in regard to his lessons. His first care, therefore, was to 
take the offensive, and torment Boris. But seeing that he 
did not succeed in accomplishing his purpose, he relin- 
quished his teasing and declared open war. 

He was determined to* wound the young man, and cared 
little what method he took to accomplish this end, and 
Boris, notwithstanding all his stoicism, felt the color rise 
to his face after two or three assaults, and with difficulty 
repressed a strong desire to throw the boy out of the low 
window looking on the garden, but contented himself with 
saying to the lad after two hours of infinite patience on his 
part: 

To-morrow is Sunday, but you have had your holiday. 


SONIA. 


89 


as it seems that you have not learned or prepared a 
recitation to-day. Therefore, to-morrow, we shall just go 
over all to-day’s lessons ! ” 

The child began a remonstrance, but Boris took him by 
the shoulder and gently put him out of the room. 

“ Go ! ” he said, “ go and play, and make the most of 
to-day, for to-morrow will not be a holiday as usual, as 
you will have all your lessons to say.” 

Eugene was utterly furious, and went off, intent on 
thoughts of vengeance. He gnawed his finger nails for a 
few moments, when suddenly a luminous idea entered his 
brain, and he ran to his sister’s room. 

Lydie,” he said, quietly, I have finished my lessons. 
You can go now for yours.” 

And having delivered himself of this sententious remark 
he put his hands in his pockets and sauntered off to find 
his mother. 


90 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER X. 


AN ENFANT TERRIBLE.” 


HIS struggle of two hours and more with this turbu- 



-L lent, refractory lad, had wearied Boris body and soul. 
He had been more or less depressed for days, and his spirits 
seemed to have lost all their elasticity. He rested his 
tired head on his two hands and closed his eyes. A slight 
noise made him open his eyes. He saw Lydie. The 
wearied tutor forgot his fatigue and his anxieties. Into 
this sombre school-room a beam of sunlight had come with 
his beloved. 

“Lydie!” he murmured, burying his face in the folds 
of the young girl’s dress, as she stood before him, “ Lydie I 
you are my joy and my consolation ! You will never 
abandon me, dearest?” 

A rosy flush flickered over the young girl’s face. She 
did not speak, but in reply laid her hand on the young 
man’s head. He raised his eyes ; the look he met was at 
first shifting and uneasy ; but this passed away, and Lydie 
pressed her lips lightly on her lover’s brow. 

“You love me, do you not?” he said, in a low voice. 

“ I love you !” she answered, subjugated by the strength 
of this passion, which she vaguely recognized as so different 
from her own feelings. 

“I have a thousand things to say to you, Lydie. Will 
you come to the spring after dinner?” 


SONIA. 


91 


“Yes,” she answered, hesitatingly. 

“ Listen. I have suffered intolerable anguish these last 
few weeks. I did not dare to speak to you.” 

The color deepened in Lydie’s cheeks, and she turned 
away her face, possibly half ashamed. 

“ I had no right to doubt you, dearest, I know ; but it did 
seem to me that you were growing to love me less tlian you 
did. Forgive me, Lydie. You are not angry with me, 
sweetheart, are you ? Forgive me ! ” and he covered the 
girFs hands with passionate kisses, pressing her cool dewy 
fingers against his hot and tired eyes. His nervous system 
was disorganized, and the morning’s trying scene with the 
boy upset him entirely. He was tempted to cry like a 
child ; but exercising all his self-control, he started to his 
feet, and threw both arms around Lydie. 

“I love you!” he exclaimed, with violence; “I love 
you with my whole heart and soul ! Kiss me !” 

Lydie turned her cheek toward him ; but he pressed his 
lips on those of his fiancee. The door was thrown open. 

“Mamma, look at my tutor kissing Lydie!” cried 
Eugene, in his shrillest tones. 

Madame Goreline rushed toward them like an enraged 
lioness. Boris had not time to remove his arm, when she 
faced him with uplifted hand. 

“ Miserable wretch ! ” she cried. 

What she would have done he never knew, for he 
snatched this menacing hand, and held it firmly in his own. 

“ Madame !” he said, in a deep voice, through which, in 
spite of its firmness, vibrated intense anger, “Madame, I 
ask you for your daughter’s hand.” 


92 


SONIA. 


Miserable wretch ! ” repeated the mother. 

Boris dropped her hand, and looked at her calmly. 

I am a gentleman,^’ he answered ; and I am not 
altogether without resources. Besides, I have youth, 
courage and hope, and the future lies fair before me. I 
ask again if you will give me your daughter Lydie. I ask 
for no dowry he added, after a short silence. 

Pale with rage, Madame Gor^line had sunk upon a sofa. 
She looked at the young man for a moment in indignant 
silence. Lydie had disappeared, and a sharp scream from 
Eugene testified that in gratitude for his sweet conduct, 
she had probably pulled her brother’s ears. At any other 
time this shriek would have awakened alarm in the 
maternal breast of Madame Gor4line, but on this occasion 
she heard nothing. Her eyes were riveted on Boris, who 
stood erect before her. She was evidently in search of 
words which could adequately express her feelings. 

So, sir,” she gasped at last, “ you introduce yourself 
into respectable families, and then seduce their daughters! ” 
I seduce no one,” he answered, sternly. I ask your 
daughter’s hand in marriage.” Boris, by this time, had 
reached that excitable state, whose strongest feature is its 
external calm. 

‘^My daughter’s hand! What audacity! Do you 
imagine for a moment that she was intended for a penni- 
less fellow like yourself?” and Madame Gor^line uttered 
a little shriek of nervous laughter. 

“Then you reject ray request?” said Boris, calmly. 
Madame Gor^line still laughed, as she bowed her head 
affirmatively. “Yery well,” continued the young man; 


SONIA. 


93 


am now going to lay the matter before your hus- 
band.^^ 

More than ever angry, Madame Gor4line started to her 
feet. 

Before my husband ! I forbid your doing so ! she 
cried. 

I am not in the habit of receiving orders from any 
one,” said Boris, as he went toward the door. 

‘‘You shall not see my husband! I dismiss you from 
my service from this moment!” 

“And give me still a*nother reason for not obeying you,” 
continued the young man, coolly. 

Madame Gor^line followed him into the hall, over- 
whelming him at the same time with a storm of invectives. 
Finally, at the end of all her resources, she said con- 
temptuously : 

“ Besides, if my husband were foolish enough to give 
his consent, it would amount to nothing, for he is an 
imbecile, and has no authority here.” 

“ I have already had occasion to recognize the fact that 
he is not the master here,” continued Boris, quietly ; “ and 
I also, on more than one occasion, have had reason to rejoice 
at that fact.” 

The servants, assembled by the loud voices they had 
heard, watched, with malicious curiosity, the movements 
of the young tutor, who was followed step by step by the 
mistress. From no one of them could he obtain informa- 
tion in regard to the whereabouts of the General, who was 
not to be found in the house; and he returned again to 
the hall, still accompanied by Madame Gor^line. 

“ Go away ! ” she cried, angrily ; “ go, at once ! ” 


94 


SONIA. 


Yes, madame, as soon as you order horses for me,” he 
said at last, turning round and facing her. 

‘‘Horses! For you? You can go on foot, with your 
boots dangling from a stick over your shoulder, like the 
peasant that you are,” cried the lady, furiously. 

“I am not a peasant,” he answered, calmly. “My 
family are noble ; and if you do not choose to give me 
horses, I shall find some in the village, undoubtedly.” 

“You will not get them there,” she answered, with a 
malicious laugh ; “ for I will have the first man fl^ogged 
who dares to let you have any.” 

“You are behind the age, madame,” answered Boris, 
politely. “ Heaven be praised I It is many years since 
peasants have been beaten with impunity: you seem to 
have forgotten this fact.” 

“You shall have no horses from my village,” she 
repeated. “I will ruin any one who will dare to lend 
you any ! ” 

“ I will obtain them, then, from the Prince, your neigh- 
bor,” answered Boris, sternly, his patience by this time 
quite gone. And he closed the door of his room in her 
face, and turned the key in the lock. 

Sonia, in a state of violent agitation, was crouched out- 
side the low window, and softly called the young man by 
his name. 

He went to the window. 

“ Master ! She has sent you away, too I ” 

“What do you mean?” he asked, in astonishment at 
the word “too.” 

“ I mean that she drove me away this morning, and 
now — ” 


SONIA. 


95 


Very well,” interrupted Boris. ^^You shall go with 
me. From this moment you are in my service. Here, 
take these five roubles — go to the other side of the river 
to the first of Prince ArmianoPs villages, and tell them to 
send me, without delay, a T'dlgue, and a horse, to take me 
to the nearest post-station. Run quickly — let them see 
the money, but do not give it to them.” 

Sonia was ofP like a flash, and Boris thrust all his 
belongings into his valise with feverish haste. His heart 
and his head were alike disturbed, but amid the confusion 
of his ideas an occasional acute pang caused him to start 
in the same way that, during a fire, poor wretches who 
cannot escape, feel a tongue of flame flash through the 
thick smoke, stinging their poor bodies, half-benumbed 
by fear and suffocation. 

But one idea was distinct to his mental vision — he 
must leave this house. But how could he quit Lydie? 
Ah ! if he could but snatch her in his arms, and bear her 
away at his side in that humble vehicle for which he had 
sent. Where could he take her? That was of little con- 
sequence. The sky was blue, the world was large, and 
the horizon stretched broad before them. It would not be 
an impossible thing to find some humble roof which could 
shelter two loving hearts. 

The thought of his mother, and the mad desire to carry 
off Lydie, gave place to an inexpressible longing for the 
presence of his aged mother — so kind and dignified — sad 
at times, but always gentle and loving. Would the hour 
ever come when he should see these two beloved ones 
seated side by side on the bench under the trees in their 


96 


SONIA. 


little garden — his fiancee and his mother! What joy! 
^^Never/^ he said to himself, in discouragement. ^^No, 
never will that happiness be mine ! 

He left his room with the intention of finding Lydie, 
hoping to be able to say a word or two to her, or even to 
see her through a half-open door. Useless effort ! every 
door was closed. From the other end of the house came 
the tones of Madame Gor^line, who was holding forth to 
her husband. 

Boris went back to his room, and took a seat near the 
window. 

This garden — the path which led to the spring — the 
summer flowers, wan and pale, all passing away — the 
autumnal blossoms, already gay and flaunting, engraved 
themselves at that moment on his memory like the frame 
of a picture, in which he had loved Lydie. He remem- 
bered, then, that he had forgotten some books in the 
school-room, and he started to look for them. 

How dreary and lonely that room appeared now — that 
room where he had been so outrageously insulted, where 
his happiness had been ground to powder like a glass 
between powerful hands. 

Eefusing to dwell on these thoughts lest he should 
break down, he occupied himself with gathering together 
all that belonged to him. Lydie’s book of diotees was on 
the table, where she had placed it when she entered the 
room ; he took it, looked at it for a moment, and then 
placed it carefully in his pocket. How many long nights 
after this did he spend in examining these lines, and how 
many times did he read those verses of Lamartine with an 


SONIA. 


97 


aching hear,t, which had heralded for him the dawn and 
spring-time of love ; but this day he did not trust himself 
to dwell on these thoughts, but took the small yellow 
volume — the Jocelyn’^ which had betrayed them — wrote 
in it Lydie’s name, and placed it between a grammar and 
a book of exercises, hoping that it would thus escape 
Madame Gor^line’s eyes, and went out of the room with- 
out casting one glance behind him. 

Sonia was again under the window, and spoke as soon 
as he opened the door of his room. 

^‘The TeRgue is just opposite, on 'the other side of the 
river,’' she said. The peasant who will drive you did 
not dare to come here.” 

Why not ? ” said Boris, more irritated by this last and 
most insignificant obstacle than by all that had gone before. 
‘‘If he cares to earn his money, tell him to drive up at 
once to the hall-door. If he is afraid to do this, tell him 
to go back to his village, and I will walk.” 

Once more Sonia departed; and in ten minutes the 
T(:Rgue rattled noisily into the court. The peasant mut- 
tered the most humble excuses, to which Boris paid not 
the smallest attention. The young man handed him his 
valise and box of books. He placed Sonia on the seat, 
amid the audible laughter of the servants, and then, with 
an air of authority, he turned toward them and said: 

“ Send some one to inform the G6n4ral that I am about 
to start, and wish to see him.” 

Under the threatening eyes of the young man the 
laughter ceased. The servants disappeared in every direc- 
tion, and in a few minutes more the G4n6ral appeared on 
6 


98 


SONIA. 


the balcony. His wife was at his heels. As to Eugene, 
he seemed to have totally vanished from off the face of 
the earth ; his malicious piece of mischief-making had 
been only too great, and in a secret corner he was weeping 
hot tears over his tutor^s departure — for insubordinate as 
was the boy, his heart was not altogether bad, and he 
loved Boris. 

G^n^ral,’’ said the young man, I wish first to thank 
you for the esteem and consideration which you have 
shown to me ever since I have been under your roof.” 
And his loyal hand was stretched forth as he spoke. 

The G^n^ral took it, with some little caution. 

I asked your wife this morning to bestow upon me 
your daughter’s hand. I received from her an unequivocal 
refusal. I now reiterate this demand to you. What will 
you say ? ” 

Madame Goreline was about to speak ; but Boris said 
to her, politely : 

I believe, madame, that this point was settled so far as 
you and I are concerned. It is to your husband that I 
now have the honor of speaking. I await your reply, 
G^n^ral.” 

But,” stammered the General, my wife said — ” 

It is your reply, sir, which I wish to receive,” inter- 
rupted Boris, persistently. 

What can I say ? I like you, and I look upon you as 
an honest and honorable man ; but I never interfere in such 
matters — they belong to my wife. And then, too, the 
Prince — ” 

^^You refuse me as a son-in-law,” interrupted Boris, 
coldly. 


SONIA. 


99 


Yes/^ cried Madame Gor^line, ^^yes, we refuse you — 
how many times do you wish me to say it?” 

The Gen^raFs head was already held less high. 

Very well,” said Boris; have one favor to ask of 
you, sir. Madame has driven from her house this little 
orphan you see here. I beg of you to give me her papers, 
that I may take her with me to my mother, with whom she 
will receive all the care and attention requisite at her age.” 

The G4n6ral looked at Sonia with some sadness. 

The child on the high seat of the Tdlgue was weeping 
bitterly. 

The servants laughed no more ; the hospitable instinct, 
vibrating so strongly in the heart of every true Russian, 
had been touched by these last words. 

It is true,” they said to each other, she is an orphan, 
and God loves the poor and the fatherless.” 

You wish to take her away ! ” cried Madame Goreline ; 
^Mo you? Well! I forbid it. I have dismissed her, it is 
true, from my house ; but all the same I forbid your taking 
her with you. Sonia I come to me this minute ! ” 

G6n4ral Gor6line straightened himself up ; and for the 
first time in his life, possibly, looked his wife in the face, 
and ventured to oppose her. 

^^And why should not this young man take the child, 
whom you have driven from your house, away with 
him?” he said, in so loud and clear a voice that the 
servants exchanged looks of surprise. 

I do not choose that he should take the child with 
him, merely because it is his wish to do so, and — ” 


100 


SONIA. 


You are wrong, Julie, very wrong,” interrupted her 
husband, severely; ‘^and you have shown great cruelty to 
the orphan — ” 

^‘Are you mad? Do you dare to blame me, and in the 
j)resence of my servants? This is too much ! And all on 
account of this worthless little vagabond. Come here, 
you miserable little wretch.” 

“ She shall not stir ! ” said the G6n4ral, in the voice of 
thunder with which he commanded his battery. *^The 
child will go with this young man, who has been so kind 
to her already ; and he will take her to his mother.” 

But — Stepane P4trovitch — ” 

‘^Enough! I have the jurisdiction of this estate; it 
belongs to me; and I choose that Sonia shall go. You 
need have no anxiety, Boris Ivanovitch,” he said, to the 
student ; at the end of a week you shall have all the 
necessary papers. Give me your address now.” 

Madame Gor^line foamed with rage; but she felt that 
further resistance was useless. Never before had her hus- 
band spoken to her in this tone ; and her habitual contempt 
gave place to a certain degree of respect. She stood, silent 
at last, gnawing at the bit. 

“ Thank you. General,” said Boris, much relieved. 

Farewell ! ” 

He was about to enter the TU^gue, when Madame Gor4- 
line cried, hastily : 

^^And your money? You must have your money.” 
This cross and crabbed woman was a most honest and 
accurate man of business. 

^^No,” answered Boris, hastily, “I do not want the 


SONIA. 


101 


money. You owe me nothing ; I am taking away one of 
your servants ; I am paid. Farewell ! 

For the second time that day, Madame Gor^line was 
compelled to allow disdain to give way to respect in her 
estimate of others. This young man was certainly disin- 
terested. 

The G6n4ral took from his wife’s hands the roll of 
roubles intended for Boris, and going to the TkRgue he 
placed it on Sonia’s knees. The child burst into tears as 
she kissed the hands of her first protector. 

I will come and see you,” he whispered. Hush ! 
say nothing to any one.” 

Adieu, G4n4ral,” said Boris, in a trembling voice; 
you are a good man.” 

'^Au revoir,” muttered the G4n4ral, with a mysterious 
wink. 

“ Well ! will you never have done, G4n4ral, with your 
farewells?” cried Madame Gor4line, sharply, from the 
balcony above. 

Boris raised his cap to her; and then looked around 
on the crowd gathered about him. All — servants and 
peasants — stood uncovered. 

Go on ! ” he said to the coachman. God be with us 
and you ! ” 

The TeRgue rattled off. The lean little horse trotted 
gayly down the road ; and in a very brief period the roof 
of the house where Lydie lived was lost among the trees. 


102 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER XI. 


OATHS AND PROMISES 


HE peasant who drove Boris was devoured by curi- 



-JL. osity ; he made several efforts at conversation ; but 
after two or three repulses, he, in his turn, relapsed into 
meditative silence. 

Soon the green roofs, and the turnip-shaped cupola sur- 
mounting the church in the district town, were to be seen 
in the distance ; and in another half hour, the TeUgue drew 
up before the little wooden building which represented the 
post- station. 

Xo one troubled himself to come out to receive so 
unimportant a personage as our traveller. The peasant 
was about to drive away at once, but Boris bade him 
wait ; while he himself entered the dingy room, where the 
official was smoking a pipe with a sulky air. 

^^At what hour does the diligence for Moscow pass ? ” 
asked the young man. 

The official took two or three whiffs from his pipe 
before he condescended to reply ; then without discarding 
his Olympian calm he slowly dropped these words : 

‘^At eleven o’clock, if it is not delayed.” 

Must I put my name down, to secure a place ? ” 

It is quite useless. The diligence is always full when 
it reaches here.” 

shall nevertheless hope to find an inch or two vffiere 


SONIA. 


103 


I can squeeze in/’ said Boris, indifferently; then he 
returned to the THlgue where Sonia sat, with terrified, 
anxious eyes fixed on the door which had swallowed her 
protector. 

Listen, Sonia,” said the tutor, as he lifted her from 
the vehicle. You have considerable sense; I am going 
to order some tea for you, and you will wait here for me. 
The diligence does not pass until late this evening. You 
must take care of all my things until I come back.” 

^^Are you going away?” murmured Sonia, in terror. 

Do not be troubled ; I will surely come back. Now,” 
he added, turning to the peasant, do you think your 
horse can take me back to the place we came from, and 
then come here again with me before nine to-night?” 

The peasant, who held his hat in his hand, rolled it 
about, looked into it anxiously, scratched his head, and 
finally answered, ^^How much will you give me for all 
that?” 

^^How much did you promise him for bringing us 
here?” asked Boris of the child. 

One rouble and a half,” she answered. 

Very well, then; I will give you four in all.” 

The peasant looked at Boris, and then resumed in a low 
voice ; 

My horse is tired, sir ; why do you want to go back 
there again?” 

Boris flushed with anger; but, remembering that the 
greatest prudence was necessary, he restrained himself. 

I have forgotten something which I must have,” he 
answered. 


104 


SONIA. 


Then, sir, if you will give me a blue-paper* I will 
harness up another horse of mine, which has not been 
used to-day, and we will be back here when you are ready, 
as fast as the wind that blows.” 

^^That is settled, then ? ” said Boris. *^We will start 
in a half-hour.” 

He ordered his luggage carried into the waiting-room, 
a large apartment, whose wooden floor was clean and 
white. He ordered the samovar to be brought in, pre- 
pared several cups of tea for the child, who drank them 
eagerly, and, without touching anything himself, he entered 
the Tel^gue once more, giving Sonia strict orders not to 
lose sight, for one moment, of the valise and small box 
which constituted his luggage. 

Sonia seated herself on the floor by the side of her pre- 
cious charge, and guarded it with canine fidelity until 
long after every ray of sunshine had deserted the dreary 
room. 

The little horse, who smelt his stable, took Boris rapidly 
back over the road he had so recently traversed ; the peasant 
excited him by cries, and yet it seemed to the young man 
that the long, white road stretched out to an infinite length 
before them. 

His whole being was concentrated on one single thought : 

Should they kill me as they would a mad dog, I cannot 
go away thus. I must see Lydie once more !” 

They at last reached the village where the peasant 
resided. Boris gave orders that another horse should 
stand harnessed to the Tel^gue, and awaiting him, that 


* Five roubles. 


SONIA. 


105 


no time should be lost, and directed his own steps toward 
the Gor^line mansion, which was little more than a verst 
olf. A small grove surrounded the village. As soon as 
he had passed through this, he made a sharp turn to the 
left, cut through the forest, and reached the ravine in this 
way, along w^hich he went until he came to the brook 
gurgling over the stones; he jumped over this, and found 
himself by the garden-hedge. 

In all this agitation the time had passed as swiftly as a 
dream, and just as the young man reached the ravine, the 
sunlight, soft and subdued, filtered, like a golden vapor, 
through the low limbs and foliage of the forest trees. 

It was a little after five ; exactly the hour when the 
G6n6ral and his wife took their daily nap ; it was exactly 
the hour when the two young people had been in the habit 
of meeting at the spring. 

“She will be there,^^ said Boris to himself; “she will 
be there, unless they have shut her up ! he added, sadly. 

He stopped for a moment to control the quick beating 
of his heart, forgetting that if he were seen, he ran the 
risk of being ignominously driven away. He thought 
that he was soon to see Lydie again ; that he should see 
her or die of anger and despair. 

“She is there,’’ he said to himself, just as the first tink- 
ling of the water in the spring broke on his ear. A thick 
wall of green branches still separated him from the usual 
place of rendezvous. He tried to look through it, and 
even thought he saw the folds of a white dress lying on 
the turf. 

Without paying much heed to thorns or scratches, he 


106 


SONIA. 


crashed through the hedge and went quickly toward the 
spring. 

But no Lydie! His heart sank like lead. Conquered 
at last, hopeless and despairing, he threw himself down on 
the turf, on the spot where she was in the habit of sitting, 
and, pressing his lips on the cold irresponsive ground, he 
prayed for death — yes, for death — since she was forever 
lost to him. 

The birds uttered an occasional warble, as if to warn 
him that it was growing late, and that the servants would 
soon be there for water for the household. An entire hour 
passed, and yet Boris had no thought of going. 

It mattered little to him if he were found there ; his 
life was of no further value in his eyes; the only hope 
that had gilded it had perished — his whole being had lost 
its mainspring. 

A footstep startled him. For Lydie’s sake he did not 
wish to be seen ; he therefore concealed himself behind a 
thorn-bush, and waited. 

A rolling pebble, the click of a dainty boot-heel, the 
rustling of silken skirts : ah ! it was no servant. Boris 
listened — a sigh, a sob, and then the words, Mon Dieu ! 
Mon Dieu ! 

It was she. Boris threw himself at her feet, not with- 
out startling her, for she nearly fainted. 

Lydie ! he murmured, amid passionate kisses. Did 
you think that I could leave this place without seeing you 
again ? I should have died of grief, my Lydie ! If I wish 
to live I must work ; to work I must have courage and 
hope, and you must tell me that you love me, that you are 
mine, and that you will wait for me ! 


SONIA. 


107 


He could have talked on in this way for hours. She 
listened to him without replying. She seemed lost in 
thought, with her eyes fixed on the earnest, impassioned 
face of her lover. 

He was,^o longer the poor Tutor in a dependent posi- 
tion ; he was no longer her fianc4 in humble circum- 
stances ; he was a man who adored her, who spoke to her 
as lover and master; it was more than this even; it was 
love itself — passionate, irresistible. Dazzled by the splen- 
dor of this apparition, she felt herself losing her self- 
control. 

‘‘Yes,’^ she said, at last, am yours; I will wait 
for you, for I love you — I love you — I love you ! 
she repeated slowly, as if she liked to linger over these 
words, whose full meaning she was incapable of com- 
])rehending. Boris was about to reply, when the distant 
song of one of the women servants of the house closed 
his lips. 

We are discovered ! ” he said in a whisper, terrified 
for her sake, not for his own. 

The song drew nearer ; but they saw no one as yet. 

They have come for water to make the tea,’’ said 
Lydie. Follow me.” 

She hurried away rapidly, drawing Boris after her. 
She opened a little gate in the hedge, and they found 
themselves in the forest 

little further,” she said to Boris, who wished to detain 
her. A few steps more and she considered themselves free 
from all danger of eaves-droppers. They stood still and 
discussed their plans for future correspondence. The sun 


108 


SOKI A. 


had disappeared behind the hill ; the birds were silent, or 
from them came only an occasional chirp, as if in their 
sleep ; a light blue mist arose and rested along the side of 
the ravine. 

I must depart,’^ said Boris, desperately. His arms 
were around Lydie ; the girl’s head was on his shoulder, 
and her tears fell fast. Lydie,” he continued, “ if you 
would — ” 

She looked up questioningly. 

I have a good horse there ! ” he said, with passionate 
vehemence. I am going directly to my mother’s house ; 
will you go with me? We will be married at once; the 
priest at Gribova will make no opposition, and afterwards 
we will tell your parents. Say ; will you give your 
consent ? ” 

And he pressed Lydie to his heart, as if he could in 
that way convince her more easily. 

‘^Do you mean for me to go with you, and be married?” 
answered the young girl, growing very pale; ‘^and my 
mother — what would she say ? She would be very angry.” 

^AVhat of that?” replied Boris, eagerly. do not 
wish to speak disrespectfully of her, but — However, 
we will say no more about her. Now, then: will you ero 
with me?” 

His heart and soul were in this question ; his eyes 
seemed to penetrate the very inner being of the girl ; he 
waited for her reply. 

‘‘No,” she murmured, feebly. “No; I dare not. I 
cannot ! ” and she loosened the clinging arms around her 
lover’s neck. 


SONIA. 


109 


Was it the thought of her parents’ anger? Was it his 
poverty which terrified and restrained her in this decisive 
hour ? She could not herself have told ; but it is quite 
certain that her parents’ anger would not have restrained 
her. 

^^As you will,” said Boris, sadly. I did not think 
that you would consent. Farewell, Lydie, my love ! my 
life ! ” 

She sobbed bitterly. Many confused impressions 
heightened her sorrow. She felt herself guilty — toward 
whom ? She did not know. She wished to please the 
man whom she had accepted as her future husband ; and 
yet she felt weak and powerless before him. She was by no 
means certain that she did not wish to go with him. She 
thought of it for a moment — to live at his side, to spend 
her life with him, would not this be the happiness of 
which she had so often dreamed ? Why should she not 
say yes? My duty to my parents,” she said to herself, 
as if in excuse. But she knew very well that in the 
depths of her heart she despised her father, and judged 
her mother with merciless severity. 

These thoughts and conflicting wishes troubled her 
sorely. She drove them away like an importunate flock 
of thieving birds, and turned toward her lover. 

Strangely enough, Boris suffered still more acutely; but 
his sorrow was under restraint ; his manner was calm, and 
the young girl silently accused him of coldness. 

‘‘Adieu ! ” she said, at last, with a passionate pang of 
regret, and her arms closely around him. 

“ Not adieu,” he answered, closing her lips with a kiss; 


no 


SONIA. 


“au revoir, rather. Eeraember, Lydie, that my life 
belongs to you.’^ 

^^Mademoiselle! mademoiselle!’’ cried some one in the 
garden. Where are you ? There is company here.” 

The two lovers separated instantly. An hour later, and 
Boris had reached the station. In spite of the dictum of 
the official at the station, the diligence, which rolled along 
at midnight, had two vacant places in the imperial for 
himself and his little prot^g^e. 


SONIA. 


Ill 


CHAPTER XII. 

HESITATION AND EXPLANATION. 

L YDIE slowly returned to the house. Before her 
interview with Boris, she had wept for hours, think- 
ing that she should never see him again. And now she 
realized that the chain which bound them together was 
not broken. Nothing in fact was changed or lost except 
the dear delight of living in that atmosphere of love and 
adulation to which her lover had accustomed her. The 
happiness was gone, but the chains were left. Terrified 
by the future which she vaguely saw spread before her, 
Lydie stood still in the avenue under the linden trees, and 
asked herself aloud, Why ? 

Why had he returned ? Why has he bound me with 
these promises? Why did I promise, when fortune and 
prosperity will never come to him, nor to me through him ? 
No, never ! 

She threw herself on the turf, regardless of the guest 
who was waiting for her, and wept more bitterly than ever ; 
while Boris, by this time far away, thought of her with an 
aching heart, but one which was, nevertheless, filled with 
high hopes, and indomitable courage and energy. Lydie 
did not weep for him : she wept for herself, and her tears 
brought her no relief. 

Then she returned to the house, bathed her burning 
cheeks and eyes in fresh water, and went down again to 


112 


SONIA. 


the balcony, where a guest was smoking a cigar while 
awaiting the rising of the General and Madame Gor^line 
from their siesta. It was the Prince. No one had told 
Lydie that it was he ; but she knew it in advance. She 
was never mistaken in the hours of his visits. 

Generally, it was with a strong feeling of pleasure that 
she met him. The young man’s very evident admiration 
flattered her feminine heart ; but this evening she felt a 
strange constraint, as she entered the presence of Armianof. 

He, on the contrary, had never been so much disposed 
to speak openly. Had she wished to provoke a declara- 
tion, Lydie could not have managed better. Her keeping 
him waiting was a coup dJHat As soon as he saw her, 
Armianof advanced with great eagerness to meet her. 

^^At last! Ah! Lydie Stepanovna, I began to think 
that I was not to have the pleasure of seeing you to-day.” 

The evening before, she would have cast a coquettish 
glance at him, and murmured, You wished to see me, 
then, did you ?” To-day she had no reply on her lips ; she 
simply stammered: 

I was walking in the woods.” 

‘^Had I known that, I should have joined you,” replied 
the Prince, interpreting in his own fashion, and to his own 
satisfaction, the young girl’s embarrassment. 

She glanced at him with a startled expression ; but the 
gathering darkness covered her embarrassment. 

‘‘You have been waiting alone here for some time, I 
fear,” she said at last, after a short silence. ‘ “ Did you not 
send a servant to tell my mother that you were here ? ” 

“No, I did not ; and pray do not disturb them now,” 


SONIA. 


113 


answered the Prince, eagerly. It is not altogether to see 
them that I come here so often,” he added, slowly. Here 
again she would have liked to reply as of yore ; but the 
smile froze on her lips. 

“ Chained for life ! ” she thought, impatiently. 

^^Can you imagine why I come so often?” insisted the 
Prince. 

No,” murmured Lydie. She gasped for breath, as she 
realized that she held her future in her own hands. What 
was she about to do with it? 

You do not guess why I come so often? Well, then, 
I will tell you the next time. Ah ! Mademoiselle Lydie, 
how is it that you who are so wise have not discovered 
that?” 

He spoke in a tone that was half serious, half jesting. 
A little more encouragement from the girl would have 
made him altogether in earnest; but he was always in 
mortal terror of being ridiculous, and he had the sense to 
see that a woman would not necessarily worship him 
because he was a Prince, and wealthy. 

am often extremely dull,” answered Lydie, who 
felt more at ease by this time. 

Then you must have a full explanation very soon,” 
replied the young man ; now it is too late to attempt it ; 
for I see your mother at the end of the avenue. Where is 
Boris Ivanovitch?” 

Lydie felt the blood leap in her veins. In a faint voice 
she answered : 

He is not here.” 

So I see,” said Armianof, with a laugh ; but where 

7 


114 


SONIA. 


has he hidden himself? The windows of his room are 
Avide open.’^ 

“He has gone away,” answered Lydie, struggling to 
speak with indifference. 

“ Gone ! ” repeated the Prince, in amazement ; “ and 
where has he gone?” 

“ To Moscow.” 

“ To Moscow ? and wherefore ? ” 

“ He had some quarrel with mamma,” murmured 
Lydie. 

Madame Gor^line was close at hand ; Lydie drew back 
a little, feeling that the situation was becoming quite 
intolerable. 

After an interchange of politenesses, the Prince ex- 
claimed : 

“ Madame, I have just heard that Monsieur Grebof 
has left you. May I ask if his departure was not very 
sudden?” 

“ Do not say a word about it,” answered Madame Gor6- 
line, still irritated, and casting a threatening glance at her 
daughter, which was entirely lost upon her; for it was 
growing very dark. As the three turned toward the 
house, she continued : “ This young man is a rascal. I 

cannot understand how I could have been so completely 
blinded and fooled by him, as to bring him here. \ye 
are all subject to errors ; but this lesson will have the effect 
of making me very prudent in future.” 

Armianof made no attempt to conceal his surprise. 
Suddenly a thought came to him. 

“Has he been ;jguilty of any indiscretion?” he asked, 


SONIA. 


115 


knowing very well that with Madame Gor^line he could 
be slightly inquisitive, without having the appearance in 
her eyes of being indiscreet. 

The very worst of all,^’ answered Madame Gor^line, 
without hesitation, and with an accent of condensed 
indignation in her voice. ‘^Let us say no more on the 
subject. Prince, I beg of you.’^ 

They entered the dining-room, which was brilliantly 
lighted. At one glance Armianof took in the scene. He 
saw Eugene’s confused air; the harassed, disturbed 
countenance of the G4n4ral ; the quick, sharp glances of 
the mother ; and above all, the brilliant color and inflamed 
eyelids of the daughter, whose delicate nose even, was 
suffused with an unbecoming tinge of color. 

How stupid I have been ! ” he thought. They love 
each other, and I never suspected it ! ” 

The shock he felt on making this discovery was so 
violent, that he was compelled to summon all his talent 
as a man of the world to conceal his impressions. 
Fortunately the dishes placed before them gave them a 
pretext for frequent pauses in their desultory conversa- 
tion, and he had time to make more than one sagacious 
reflection. 

His first conscious thought was not regret at having a 
rival, but a certain irritation against the entire Gor^line 
family. 

I have been trifled with ! ” he said to himself ; and the 
tea he swallowed had a bitter taste in his mouth. The 
next thought proved to him that the parents, at least, had 
suspected nothing, since they had so hastily disembarassed 


116 


SONIA. 


themselves of Boris. Who, then, has trifled with me ? ” 
thought Armianof — ^^Lydie?” Lydie herself, in receiv- 
ing his attentions so warmly, while all the time having her 
heart occupied with another person ! 

Astonished at himself that he was more angry than 
pained, he looked at Lydie^s delicate face, disfigured by 
tears, and fancied that he had become entirely indifferent 
to her. 

I do not love her as much as I thought I did,” he 
said to himself. But it may be merely because she is 
one of those women who become astonishingly ugly when 
they cry ! ” 

These reflections and many others did not tend to make 
him the gayest guest at the supper-table ; the ball of con- 
versation was thrown occasionally, but elicited no response. 
Finally, under the pretext of a frightful headache, Armi- 
anof took his leave at an early hour. As he said good- 
night to his hosts, he said to the General, Monsieur 
Gr^bof lent me some books, which I would like to return 
to him. Do you know his address ? ” 

My wife wrote it down,” replied the good man, with- 
out any hesitation, while his wife darted a terrible glance 
at him. 

Will you be kind enough to give it to me, madame?” 
said the Prince, politely, to Madame Gor^line. I shall 
be infinitely indebted to you, if you would.” 

I have lost it, I believe,” she answered, hastily 
deciding to give a false address rather than to allow 
Armianof to correspond with that odious tutor. 

“ I know it,” said Eugene, with triumphant eagerness ; 


SONIA. 


117 


was on Boris Ivanovitch’s valise. I know it by 
heart : Eue des Jardins, No. 84.^^ 

Eugene knew very well that he would have one or two 
slaps on each ear to accompany him to his bed that night; 
but he was wretched at having caused the disgrace and 
dismissal of his tutor, and this bit of malice, perpetrated 
to his mother, seemed to him a sort of reparation toward 
Boris. 

“ Eue des Jardins 84, Moscow,” repeated the Prince. 

Not at all ! ” interrupted Madame Goreline, with an 
angry light in her eyes. That is his old address. He 
has moved, and lives at present at the other end of the 
town ; but I really cannot say just where.” 

Armianof looked at the speaker with quiet scrutiny. 
This rapid examination sufficed to prove to him that he 
could never hope to receive any accurate information on 
this point from his hostess. Another idea came to him, 
which he lost no time in carrying into execution. 

He took his leave, and less than an hour after his 
caliche drew up before the door of his sumptuous dwelling. 

Do not unharness ! ” he said to his coachman, who 
sat immovable and stiff in his seat. 

Armianof mounted the stairs hastily, ordered his valet 
to put some linen and a change of clothing in a valise, 
took from his secretary a roll of bank-bills; then throwing 
open his window, he called to his coachman. 

Efime, is the caleche in good order?” 

Yes, your Highness.” 

^^AVill it be fit to go to Moscow?” 

To St. Petersburg, if you wish it, your Highness ; I 
examined it thoroughly this very morning.” 


118 


SONIA. 


Armianof shut the window, ordered his valise to be 
buckled, threw a cloak over his shoulders, and ran hastily 
down the stairs. 

I will return, perhaps, in an hour — perhaps to-mor- 
row — perhaps in a week,’^ he said to his amazed servants, 
who were ranged in the vestibule. Expect me, there- 
fore, at any time.’^ 

He jumped into his carriage, and wrapped himself in 
his cloak. 

Drive to town,’’ he said to his coachman. 

The caleche went as if on wings. 

As they neared the post-station, he saw afar off a black 
moving mass, and heard the snapping of whips. 

Armianof summoned the official. Is that the diligence 

for Moscow ? ” he asked. 

“Yes, sir; it has just gone,” answered the functionary, 
standing humbly, with his hat in his hand. 

“ Was there a young man in it?” 

“Yes, sir; and a little girl.” 

“ A little girl ?” repeated the Prince, in astonishment. 

“ Yes, sir ; one of your peasants drove them here in his 
Tel^gueJ^ 

“ Where did these two persons come from ? ” 

“ From G6n4ral Gor^line’s, your Highness.” 

“ Four horses ! ” said the Prince, hastily. “And hurry, 
for I am in the greatest possible haste ! ” 

The people had the best intentions, but there were not 
enough horses. One must be sent for from a peasant 
near at hand, but much time was lost in this way, and it 
was one o’clock when all was in readiness. 


SONIA. 


119 


Tell them at home not to expect me to-night,” said 
Armianof to his coachman, who came to take leave of his 
master, mounted on one of the carriage horses, and hold- 
ing the bridles of the other three in his hand. 

‘‘And now,” said the Prince to himself, while the bells of 
the four fresh post-horses rang out gayly, “ now, I am off 
in hot pursuit of Grdbof. If he has misconducted himself 
toward Lydie, I shall kill him ! If only toward myself, 
we will decide later what to do.” 


120 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER XIII. 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. 

I T is quite natural to suppose that Armianof slept well 
during the long hours which ensued. He aroused 
himself at the various stations only to examine the account, 
and to ask news of the diligence. He slept so well, in 
fact, that when, at dawn, he beheld before him the walls 
of a monastery, and the stone houses of a large town, he 
was much surprised. 

He remembered that he had been travelling the greater 
part of the night at no mean rate of speed ; that he had 
stopped at a post-station three or four times. He there- 
fore struggled out of his carriage, stretched himself vigor- 
ously, and entered the station while fresh horses were 
being put in. 

^^Whereabouts is the diligence now?” he asked. 

“There it is — just gone !” some one said, pointing to a 
black speck afar oif. 

“Give me some tea, quick!” was his reply, and he 
began walking up and down before the door, to invigorate 
his limbs which seemed half asleep. He swallowed the 
boiling tea which was handed him, put in his pocket 
two or three delicate rolls of white bread, brought to the 
caliche by the peasants for sale, and said to the postilion, 
who was swaying to and fro in his seat, 


SONIA. 


121 


“Overtake that diligence and you will be a lucky 
fellow!’^ 

The postilion snapped his whip, swore violently at his 
horses, and the vehicle started — with a rattle and a bang — 
descending the steep hill which led into the city, with the 
most surprising noise. But the diligence was too far in 
advance, and it was not on this occasion that Armianof 
succeeded in overtaking it. 

It was almost ten o’clock when the heavy, rocking mass 
was again seen at the termination of one of those straight, 
long roads which, disregarding hills and valleys, have the 
effect of the various tubes of a telescope, ready to fit one 
into another. 

“ Try the spurs. Catch that diligence at any cost ! ” 
said the Prince, excited by this novel steeple-chase. “ You 
shall have five roubles if you overtake it before it reaches 
the next station.” The four bay horses galloped at full 
speed, rattling down the declivities with the quickness of 
a locomotive, and remounting the opposite ascent with the 
same rapidity in consequence of the additional velocity 
they had acquired. Could these horses ever do the like 
again ? Only one class of men could answer this question 
— those who skin and cut up old and worn-out animals, 
and keep an account of the number of such who pass 
under their hands each month. 

The diligence was near at hand, and finally the two 
vehicles w'ere side by side. 

“ Stop ! ” cried the Prince to the postilion of the dili- 
gence. 

“ Impossible ! The diligence must not stop ; it is for- 
bidden,” answered the man, carelessly. 


122 


SONIA. 


He took a rouble from his pocket and held it so that 
the sun fell full upon it. 

lachka!” called out the postilion, with a wink to the 
driver, look back over the road. I am afraid the leader 
has cast a shoe.^^ 

Monsieur Gr^bof cried the Prince, with the voice of 
a stentor, while the postilion of the diligence examined 
each foot of his six horses. All were in perfect order, 
as no one knew better than himself. 

Boris, astonished at hearing his name shouted in such a 
placed put his head out of the wdndow, and opened his eyes 
wide when he saw the Prince. 

Come into my carriage, will you? I have something 
to say ; and I will take you on with me.^^ 

Boris made no objection, but immediately jumped from 
the diligence into the caliche. Sonia^s frightened eyes 
followed his movements; he reassured her with a kind 
smile^nd a gesture. 

The shoes are all right,’’ called the postilion. 

Go on, then,” answered the conductor. 

And the two equipages started. 

Armianof was by no means fond of long preambles, and 
Boris was a man who invited frankness. He lost then no 
time in broaching his subject. 

I beg your pardon, Boris Ivanovitch,” said the Prince, 
as soon as the two young men were seated side by side ; 

you understand, of course, that it is from no caprice that 
I interrupt you thus in your journey, and that I follow 
you all night in this way.” 

Boris, more amazed than ever, nodded slightly in 


SONIA. 


123 


acquiescence, but was evidently at an utter loss to under- 
stand the scene. 

Will you answer all my questions fully and truly 
asked Armianof. “ It is important for me to know if I 
am to look on you in future as a friend or an enemy. I 
expect from you absolute truth, and truth too without 
any reticence. I must know all, whatever it may be.” 

“ I shall certainly tell the truth,” answered Boris, upon 
whose befogged mind now came a ray of light. 

What are your precise relations with Mademoiselle 
Gor6line ?” 

Boris was half angry, but met the eyes of the Prince 
with entire fearlessness. Those handsome, haughty eyes 
had such a serious, almost solemn expression in their 
depths that his anger faded away. He at once understood 
the full consequences of his reply, and, still with his eyes 
full on ArmianoPs face, he answered : 

I love her, and I have asked her to become my wife.” 

^^Andshe?” 

She has consented.” 

How long since ?” 

Two months.” 

Before my arrival, that is?” 

Yes, before your arrival.” 

Why have you left ? ” 

Because Madame Gor6line, having learned our mutual 
affection, refuses to give her daughter to me.” 

And the General ?” 

Boris shrugged his shoulders, and smiled sadly. 

^‘Then you have renounced Mademoiselle Gor4line,” 
asked the Prince. 


124 


SONIA. 


Why do you wish to know?’^ 

“ For reasons of great importance. Answer me, I beg 
of you ; have you renounced all pretensions to Mademoi- 
selle Goreline’s hand?” 

The caleche went rapidly on. Boris, after a momentary 
struggle with himself, answered : 

I trust you, sir, because I believe you to be an honest 
man. I confide to you a secret which involves the peace 
and repose of Lydie’s whole life. I saw her again — ” 

‘^When?” 

' Last evening, at twilight.” 

^And what took place then?’ 

** She promised to w^ait for me. I regard her as my 
fiancee. The objections made by her parents will delay, 
but not prevent our marriage.” 

‘^She made you new promises last evening, you say?” 

Yes,” answered Boris, shortly, sick at heart and irri- 
tated by all these questions. 

Why have her parents refused their consent ? ” 

“Because I am poor,” answered Boris, with a bitter 
smile ; “ you should know that without asking.” 

Arraianof reflected for a moment, and then extendinof his 
hand to the tutor ; 

“We are friends!” he said^ “Tell me everything, 
even to the smallest details, and I promise you that you 
shall never have occasion to repent of your confidence in 
me.” 

Boris, subjugated by the cordial hand-clasp and by the 
kind words of the Prince, related to him each event of 
the previous eventful day ; Sonia’s dismissal, and his con- 
sequent determination to take the child to his mother. 


SONIA. 


125 


Armianof listened, anger and approval alternate in his 
eyes. What a knight-errant you are ! We are friends, 
I said, and now then it is time for me to prove ray 
friendship. What are you going to do?^^ 

I hardly know,” answered the tutor, whose excitement 
was fast giving way to intense depression. ^^For the 
present, I am going to my mother ; there I shall remain 
for several weeks and rest, for I am really worn out,” he 
added, turning toward the Prince with a faint smile. 

His weary eyes blazing with fever, and the color high 
in his cheeks, proved the fact that these two painful days 
had disturbed even his vigorous physique. Armianof 
noticed this, but made no comments at that time. 

And then — what are your plans then ? ” 

I have none, save to resume my usual avocations with 
more than my usual industry. I must give twice as many 
lessons each day as I have hitherto done.” 

Which will prevent you giving any time to litera- 
ture.” 

Not so, for I shall sleep less. To all intents and pur- 
poses my summer has been thrown away. I must work, 
therefore, doubly hard this winter to make up for lost 
time.” 

But,” said Armianof, with some little hesitation, I 
supposed that the Gor4lines — ” 

Do you think that I would take their daughter and 
their money, too?” interrupted Boris with some bitter- 
ness. “No, by no means. One of them will suffice. 
Besides, not having fulfilled my engagement, which was 
of course to the end of the season, I have really no claim 
to any remuneration whatever.” 


126 


SONIA. 


“ So that you are really no better off than when you 
left Moscow ! 

^^You are correct in this idea,” answered the tutor, 
turning his head aside in annoyance; ^^but I really do not 
know why we dwell on these details, which are totally 
uninteresting to any one but myself.” 

The Prince made no reply; for although in the begin- 
ning of their acquaintance Boris had spoken without con- 
straint of his pecuniary position and his plans for the 
future, he feared now that he had unintentionally wounded 
a susceptibility which surrounding circumstances rendered 
more tenacious than usual. At the end of ten min- 
utes he decided to break a silence which was becoming 
oppressive, even at the risk of still further offending his 
morose travelling companion. 

“Instead of lessons, why do you not try to find some 
position as Secretary or Librarian with some savant? In 
such an association you might win his confidence to such a 
degree that you would finally become his assistant and 
companion.” 

“I should infinitely prefer that kind of work, but alas! 
such positions are rare, almost impossible to find. I shall 
continue to turn the grindstone — I have done it for some 
time; it is slow, but sure.” 

And Boris continued to watch the dull, monotonous 
landscape which unfolded itself before him. 

“ Listen, Boris Ivanovitch,” said the Prince, after a long 
silence ; “the truth is due to you. I have been very much 
in love with Mademoiselle Gor^line, and I intended to 
present myself as a suitor to her parents.” Boris looked 


SONIA. 


127 


at him with eyes full of anxious sadness. ^^But now that 
I know that she has entered into an engagement with you, 
I renounce all pretensions. You were tliere before me, 
you obtained her free consent — I will retire, and I tell 
you so in all truth and loyalty.’^ 

Instead of being relieved and comforted by this assu- 
rance, the young man’s depression increased. Making a 
great effort, he said in a low voice: 

She ought to have the power of choosing between us 
— ^between two lives so different.” 

‘^If she could hesitate from such motives,” answered 
the Prince, gravely, ^‘she would be worthy neither of you 
nor of me.” 

Boris made no reply, but pressed Armianofs hand 
warmly. The station was in sight. The Prince had said 
that here he should turn his face homeward — hardly a 
word now passed between the two young men. The tutor 
climbed into his seat in the imperial, from which place 
Sonia’s anxious eyes had never ceased to watch his every 
movement. 

You have a friend,” said Armianof, as they parted ; 
^^a friend on whom you can rely. In any emergency, 
address yourself to me without hesitation. And once more 
I promise you not to make any attempt at seeing Made- 
moiselle Gor^line again.” 

This promise was unnecessary. The manner in which 
Lydie, betrothed to another, had received the attentions 
of the Prince, had completely detached him from her, and 
he was sorely tempted to say to Boris that not much reli- 
ance was to be placed upon the constancy of this coquettish 


128 


&ONI A. 


child. But on this point he of course had less right to 
speak than on any other, and he was silent. 

A moment more, and the two carriages disappeared in 
opposite directions, and Boris turned to the little creature 
who was curled up in the corner by his side — the child 
who had no friend in the world but himself, and who was 
now his sole companion. 


SONIA. 


129 


CHAPTER XIY. 

A mother’s welcome. 

T he evening of the third day after this rencontre, 
Madame Gr^bof took her seat in the summer-house 
in the corner of her garden. The pavilion stood on a 
slight elevation, which commanded the road which led to 
the village, and also the one which wound past the court- 
yard of her modest home. 

She was fond of this spot; fond of coming there to 
catch the last rays of the setting sun. And now, amid the 
golden dust she could clearly discern her six cows, her four 
small farm-horses, and the few sheep which composed her 
flock. Then came the geese, under the care of a bright 
little boy, with large blue eyes, his fair hair bleached 
almost white in the sun, and his skin ruddy with health and 
fresh air. He was the son and heir of the chambermaid, 
and destined some day to become the valet of Master Boris, 
provided his intelligence and moral qualities fitted him to 
occupy so elevated a position — a position which was the 
object of maternal ambition. 

Dropping the stocking which hung unfinished from her 
knitting needles — a stocking intended for her cherished son 
— Madame Gr6bof had folded her hands over her bosom, and 
watched the tranquil return of the beasts to their barn and 
outhouses, when suddenly the distant sound of bells attracted 
her attention. She listened ; the sound came nearer. 

8 


130 


SONIA. 


D4cha ! Dacha ! ” she called to her maid, visitors are 
coming ! Set the samovar to boiling; and tell the cook to 
put some rolls in the oven.^’ 

The house was not far off; the honest face framed in 
gray hair belonging to Dacha, appeared at a window. 

‘^Yes, madanie,^’ she answered; “but who can be 
coming ? All the neighbors have been here very lately.’^ 

“ It may be old Madame Popof ; be sure that you have 
a dish of sorb sweetmeats; she eats none other, you 
remember.’^ 

Dacha disappeared ; and Madame Gr^bof seated herself 
to await the arrival of her guests. 

The bells were no longer heard. Dacha, having hur- 
riedly executed the orders of her mistress, had returned to 
her side, where she stood on tip-toe, shading her eyes with 
her hand, and vainly endeavoring to see through the cloud 
of dust which was slowly settling. 

“ There it is, madame ! ’’ she cried, at last. “ It went 
round by the pond ; but it is not Madame Popof ^s tar- 
antass ; it is a TeUgue I ” 

“A TeUguef You must be mistaken, my poor Dacha, 
you do not see well,” said Madame Grebof, whose own 
sight had been rapidly failing for some time. “Who 
could come to see us in a TkUgue, f ” 

The little vehicle had come nearer by this time. The 
postilion whipped his ponies, and the stout little creatures 
trotted rapidly along the avenue. 

“ Mamma ! ” cried Boris, waving his cap. 

“ Good heavens ! is it you, my son ? Alas ! my aged 
limbs are not strong enough to take me to him,” she added, 
sinking, half fainting with joy, in her chair. 


SONIA. 


131 


But Boris had leaped the hedge. The Tellgue drove 
more slowly round to the door ; while the young man fell 
on his knees before his mother. Weeping and laughing, 
she could not speak, but covered his brow and eyes with 
kisses, and with the signs of the cross. 

My son ! my Boris ! How handsome you are ! How 
you have grown ! (For in the last year Boris had reached 
his five feet eight inches.) How good it was of you to 
come to me ! But why did you not write?” 

I had no time,” answered her son. I found myself 
at liberty earlier than I had hoped.” 

So much the better ! And how long will you stay ? ” 
month ! sweet mother ; a whole month ! ” 

Madame, tea is ready ! ” cried the happy Dacha. 

Come, dear, and eat something ; you must be very 
weary,” said the old lady, taking her boy^s arm with 
2)ride. 

As they were about to enter the house, Madame Gr^bof 
saw Sonia, whom Boris had completely forgotten, holding 
her little bundle in her arms and leaning against the wall. 
The child looked sadly on at this scene, at this place and 
people, all so strange to her, and with whom she had 
nothing in common. 

Who is this ? ” said Madame Gr4bof, in amazement, 
stopping short before this atom of humanity who looked 
somewhat like a gypsy. 

It is a small chambermaid, whom I have brought to 
you,” said Boris, laughing. I remembered that Dacha 
was not so young as she once was. and I have brought her 
an assistant.” 


132 


SONIA. 


am not, God be praised, quite old enough yet to 
stand iu need of any help whatever ! ” said the woman, 
with a frown, as she cast a glance at the slender child. 
‘^And besides, what could she do ? ” 

I was only jesting, Dacha,^’ interposed Boris, hastily. 
^^She is a good child who has served me with fidelity, and 
more than that, she is an orphan ; she has neither father 
nor mother — neither home nor bread. She is one whom I 
implore you, mother dear, to receive for the love of God.” 

Madame Gr^bof made a sign of the cross, and then held 
out her hand to Sonia. 

‘^Our blessed Lord has commanded us to receive all 
who come in His name,” she said ; you are welcome, my 
child, to our bread and our salt. Where there is enough 
for five, there is always enough for six. Dacha, take her to 
the kitchen, make her eat, and by-and-by we will see what 
we shall do with her.” 

That evening Boris told his mother all that could be 
told of his sojourn with the Gorelines. He did not touch 
on Lydie, as he had determined not to sadden his mother’s 
old age by anxiety for him. He gave as a pretext for his 
sudden return the indignation which Madame Gor^line’s 
conduct towards Sonia had aroused in his heart. The good 
woman saw no reason to doubt the accuracy of her son’s 
statement, and his mere recital of. the brutal treatment 
of the child brought tears to her eyes more than once. 

“ Holy Virgin ! ” she exclaimed, '^can it be that any- 
body dares to be so forgetful of God’s commands, as to 
ill-treat one of his orphans ! ” 

When Boris had finished, she exclaimed : 


SONIA. 


133 


“ You did well, my son. We will employ this child in 
the house. We shall be able to find something for her to 
do, and as to bread, that will come, never fear! 

And she filled her son^s plate, with a smile, and handed 
him the crisp, golden-brown rolls, which attested the 
ability of her old cook. 

All the servants in this house were certainly as old as 
their mistress. Thirty years before, the cook — then a 
young woman — had officiated at Madame Gr^bof ’s wed- 
ding dinner. The two or three old women who attended 
to the heavy work of the house had known and lamented 
their master, who died in early manhood, whose widow 
had never ceased to mourn for him, and had found her 
only consolation in their little son. How hard it was for 
that poor mother to live apart from her son ! Neverthe- 
less, when the time came that the separation seemed 
necessary, she had the courage and good sense to place 
him at school at Moscow, with a French teacher, who 
however compelled the boy to follow the course of a 
Eussian college. 

The child well established at this school, and Madame 
Gr6bof returned to the old house by the river-side. At 
the end of three weeks Boris saw his mother come into the 
school -room one morning. 

I could not keep away,^^ she said. It seemed to me 
all the time that you needed me. I shall come and live at 
Moscow while you are at school here. You will remain 
here with your teachers, but I shall come every day to see 
you, and we can always spend Sundays together.^^ 

The sacrifice was very great, far greater than Boris 


134 


SONIA. 


imagined. To leave her home, her old servants, the 
habits of a lifetime, the independent, luxurious, and at the 
same time inexpensive manner of existence in her country 
home — to abandon all these for a small house in a retired 
quarter of the city, and there to reside with the strictest 
eeonomy, was bad enough ; but the hardest of all trials 
for the widow was to leave behind her the small chapel 
and the flagstone whereon she knelt during prayers; for 
this stone covered the remains of her husband, for whom 
she still wept after ten years, not of widowhood,^^ she 
said, “ but of absence.” 

Consequently, when the fair summer days once again 
made the country lovely, what joy there was in the old 
house by the river, to see the arrival of Madame Gr^bof 
and Boris. The noisy school-boy gave infinite trouble by 
his disorder to the old servants, but even while they 
scolded they smiled and murmured, He is as much like 
his father as one drop of water is like another.” And 
this thought extinguished on their lips the reproach they 
had been about to utter. 

When Boris entered the university, Madame Gr6bof 
returned to the country, for the young man now required 
more money, and she could increase her revenues if she 
managed her farm herself. 

This was another sacrifice, but it was neither the first 
nor the last that the widow made without a second thought. 

Calm as she was, she brought more life to Gribova ; and 
the servants, aged, but by no means worn out, welcomed 
her return with joy. But death had diminished the 
ranks, and the small circle was contracting each year. 


SONIA. 


135 


Sonia brought into this peaceful home an element 
which, at first, was by no means welcome: her wildness, 
her complete ignorance of the customs of the place, had 
nothing attractive to these aged persons, lost in the ruts 
of routine. 

Has she been baptized ? ” said one to another. 

When Sunday came they saw her go to church behind 
the others. She watched with wide-open eyes all the 
ceremonies in this simple village chapel. 

She had not, ten times during her whole life at Madame 
Gor^line’s, been present at prayers. A rustic Cinderella, 
she had always been compelled to remain at home and 
guard the house in the absence of the others. By degrees 
the child became accustomed to an existence hitherto 
unknown to her, where she did not receive kicks and cutfs 
every half hour, but where she was ordered to eat two 
good meals every day. 

She was still timid and startled in her aspect. She 
talked little, and was extremely reserved in her allusions 
to her past life, but she made herself very useful in the 
independent, silent fashion which was natural to her. 

From the first day of her arrival in the house she had 
insisted on taking care of her young masters room, not 
without some opposition from the old chambermaid, who 
had - rocked her young master in her arms, and who 
resisted all interference in her devotion toward him ; so 
Dacha grumbled a little, but Boris consoled her with a 
few kind words; and Sonia continued to serve the young 
man with that animal-like devotion which was her strong 
characteristic. 


136 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER Xy. 


LIGHT IN THE HORIZON, 
was already two weeks since Boris came to Grehova. 



-A Each day he became more and more sad. Twice he 
had himself deposited in the mail thick, mysterious letters, 
and he had as yet received no assurance that Lydie had 
reached home safely after their interview, and had not met 
with any contretemps or surprise. 

Anxiety devoured him. Twenty times he thought of 
starting oif in search of intelligence of her, or even to 
catch a glimpse of her, even if speaking was impossible. 
But the most powerful of motives prevented this act; he 
was literally penniless ! 

One day, finally, he returned from the post-office. His 
mother had not seen him so gay for a long, long time. 
He wandered off, again and again, to the foot of the 
garden to read the precious little note which had come to 
him that morning. 

It was very short, to be sure. An impartial judge 
would have regarded it as a very commonplace reply to 
the rapturous effusions of the banished lover. But it was 
Ly die’s writing — the first letter he had received from 
her ! 

Had the sheet contained only her signature, Boris would 
have been satisfied — temporarily satisfied, at all events. 
She wrote ; 


SONIA. 


137 


“ Dear Boris : — I have received your two letters. I 
implore you not to write me so often, for Dounia declares 
that she will not go to the post-office more than once 
in a fortnight ; she says it is too far to go — and she is 
right, it is too far. I am afraid that some one conse- 
quently will bring your letters in the meantime to us, and 
you know then what would happen. Mamma is still very 
angry ; the Prince has not been here since the day of your 
departure, when he passed that evening with us, and then 
he seemed very much out of temper. I am very well, 
and I hope you are also enjoying good health. I found 
the little book Jocelyriy in which you wrote my name, and 
1 thank you for it. 

“ When shall we meet again ? How sad it is not to see 
you, and how far off autumn seems to be ! Yours, 

Lydie.” 

At first Boris was perfectly happy. At the end of a 
few moments that happiness had sensibly decreased. This 
letter was not satisfactory, after all : he wished to know 
something of Lydie’s thoughts — had she been suffering. 
Of all this she said nothing, and yet his whole heart was 
filled with tenderness as he touched the paper on which 
the young girPs hand had rested — he even pressed it to 
his lips. 

He dismissed all these vague feelings of discomfort, 
and dwelt only on the happiness he experienced in hear- 
ing from the girl he loved ; this letter was the first visible 
link in their future lives — she had even signed it Yours 
Lydie.^^ That very signature ratified their engagement. 


138 


SONIA. 


He slept with this precious letter under his pillow. 
The next day, when Sonia brought up his tea, Boris was 
electrified by her saying : 

You have received a letter from Mademoiselle.” 

^^Who told you so?” asked Boris, in astonishment, 
but assuming an air of the utmost severity. 

^^No one; I saw the envelope on the table, and I was 
sure that it came from Mademoiselle, because you were so 
happy I ” 

Be good enough in future to keep your surmises to 
yourself,” replied Boris, annoyed at the perspicacity of 
this small page in rags. If foolish ideas like this come 
into your head, do not repeat them to any one but myself 
— for I will forget them, and other people might remember 
them a long time.” 

I understand, master ! ” said Sonia, with a profound 
obeisance, and then lifting her head quickly. ^^And 
Mademoiselle,” she said, how is she ? ” 

“ Go away, simpleton,” answered Boris, fairly vexed at 
the pertinacity of tlie child. 

He then boldly declared that the letter was not from 
Lydie. His assertions had no effect upon the child ; her 
eyes told him that she did not believe him, and Sonia 
was in disgrace for two days. 

The evening of the third day, as he went up-stairs at a 
very late hour, he saw a small, dark mass at the side. of 
his bed. 

^^Who is there?” he asked, much surprised. 

It is I, master ! ” said Sonia, half rising to her feet. 

I was waiting for you,” she sobbed. I waited to ask 
your pardon.” 


SONIA. 


139 


^^For what?” replied Boris, somewhat conscience- 
stricken. * 

“ For having been so foolish the other day. I meddled, 
Boris Ivanovitch, with what did not concern me, and I 
was a silly child. I am sorry, and beg your pardon. I 
made you angry, and now you will not speak to me.” 

She came close to him, still on her knees, and pros- 
trated herself at his feet with the air of a suppliant. 

^‘Forgive me!” she said. '^Forgive me; never again 
will I do such a thing ! ” 

‘^Very well,” answered Boris, at once touched and 
humiliated. ^^Say no more about it: go to sleep; I for- 
give you.” 

You forgive me? ” And Sonia leaped to her feet. 

Yes, my child,” repeated Boris, out of all patience, I 
forgive you.” 

^^And you will speak to me once more I and you will 
scold me when I have done wrong? Yesterday I did not 
bring any water to your room purposely; I thought you 
would scold me, but you did not — you went off and got 
the water yourself without a word to me. I had rather 
you would scold me, Boris Ivanovitch, than never speak 
to me ! ” 

The young man laughed — he could not help it. And 
as he laid his hand on the child’s head, he said : 

Go and sleep, little savage! I promise to scold you 
on the first occasion.” 

Sonia’s face was radiant with joy. She snatched the 
young man’s hands, covered them with kisses, and fled as 
silently as a little mouse. 


140 


SONIA. 


The young man’s holidays were fast slipping away. 
September was near at hand, and the schools and colleges 
were all opening again. 

One beautiful autumnal day Boris left Grdbova, his 
mother, that quiet, serene home, and little Sonia, who 
could hardly be prevailed upon to let him go. 

Take me with you,” she implored. I can black 
your boots and boil your tea-kettle. Take me with you, 
and you will never regret it ! ” 

Vain entreaties ! She remained at the village with 
Madame Gr^bof, who, half frightened by this wild and 
ungovernable nature, was, at the same time, attracted 
toward the child by her blind affection for her son. The 
old lady pitied Sonia and sympathized with her. 

By degrees the child transferred to the mother the 
devotion which, since her young master’s departure, was 
left without a channel. Instead of running away when- 
ever she was addressed, she now allowed herself not only 
to be questioned, and to answer these questions, but also 
to relate to her mistress — but only when alone with her — 
many dismal tales of her life under Madame Goreline’s roof. 

With her slender hands closely pressed together — through 
her set teeth, with dilated nostrils and flashing eyes — look- 
ing like an angry little gnome, the child told of the many 
wrongs she had endured in silence. She told of her 
impotent rage — of the terrible temptation that had more 
than once assailed her of setting fire to the house, to 
destroy those cruel creatures, and herself as well. Then 
she described her remorse, and the sterile kindness of the 
G6n6ral ; and then came the arrival of Boris, who had 


SONIA. 


141 


brought a little sunshine into a life that had pre\iously 
been as cold and sad as winter at the North Pole. 

Madame Gr^bof listened to all these things with a 
feeling of confused horror. Could such things be? She 
almost refused to believe the child. 

Impossible ! she said. God would never allow such 
monstrous conduct ! ” Then she remembered more than 
one dismal tale of unmistakable veracity, and her heart filled 
with divine compassion. She prayed with all her tender 
heart for those unhappy creatures who disregard the laws 
of God. 

Two months after Boris left home, his mother con- 
cluded one of her letters to him in this way : 

Your little savage is fast becoming civilized. Every 
afternoon she comes to me, sits on the floor by my side, and 
learns to knit. She breaks as many needles as there are 
days in the month ; but her intentions are good. Some- 
times, however, she is excessively headstrong, and harasses 
me extremely. She has taken a great dislike to the laun- 
dress, and nothing can induce her to do for the woman a 
sino-le one of the thousand services which she lavishes on 

o 

Dacha and on me. In the spring I shall put her to work in 
the garden. Now, as she is quicker than any one else in 
the house, it is she who waits on the table ; but we have 
never yet succeeded in inducing her to wear shoes. The 
next time you write home, please say that it is your wish 
that she should wear both shoes and stockings ; I will read 
this aloud to her, and perhaps when you come home again 
you will find her decently clad.” 


142 


SONIA. 


Boris laughed heartily at this recital of maternal woes. 
The idea of issuing his orders to Sonia to wear shoes 
appeared to him such an excellent joke, that he had at once 
proceeded to put it into execution ; and a few weeks later, 
he learned with satisfaction that his orders had been obeyed. 
He laughed again, and this brief moment of gayety did him 
an infinite amount of good ; for since the autumn, his life 
had grown drearier and drearier. 

Lydie had come to Moscow with her family, and Boris 
was able to catch a glimpse of her, when she occasionally 
went out with her maid, Dounia, whom they had been com- 
pelled to take into their confidence ; but these moments were 
rare and short, and were dearly paid for. Boris deprived 
himself of many a necessary of life, that he might slip into 
the hand of the obsequious Dounia the satiny folds of a 
bank bill. And then, too, by this time, Lydie had begun 
to go to dinner-parties ; she rose at a late hour, and did 
not like to go out in the morning ; in the afternoon, they 
ran a very great risk of being seen by some acquaintance ; 
in the evening she always went to a ball, or the theatre, 
or received at home; in short, Boris rarely saw her. 
Besides what had he to say to her? His daily labor only 
sufficed to bring him in means enough to purchase the 
expensive books which he needed. Saddened — almost 
discouraged — he allowed himself neither rest nor sleep; 
he never left his work, except when compelled by business 
to do so; and he gave up his whole time to profound 
studies. He had no distraction from his assiduous toil. 
Once each week came a letter from his mother. To answer 
these letters was neither easy nor agreeable — for he was 


SONIA. 


143 


desirous of concealing all his heartaches from that tender 
mother. 

In the first sunny day of October, Prince Armianof had 
called upon him on his way to St. Petersburg. The young 
man’s cordiality made a pleasant impression upon his sad- 
dened heart. He had experienced even a momentary joy 
in pressing the hand of this visitor, whose presence recalled 
the happy days of his love. Then the Prince went away, 
and the heavy veil of sad and sombre thought and work, 
which separated Boris from the external world, enwrapped 
him about again. 

One evening when he was hard at work, and alone, as 
usual, bending over his task with a sort of ferocious 
determination, a letter was brought to him. Reading it 
over and over again, Boris believed himself to be dream- 
ing. It was from Armianof ; and this is what he wrote : 

'^A savant — Monsieur N , a friend of my father — 

wishes to find a young man who is able and desirous of 
helping him in his specialty and researches. He is wealthy, 
and has no family — generosity, therefore, with him is 
allowed to do its full and perfect work. He has nev^er 
stated the salary which he would be willing to pay a 
secretary; but I think that I am quite safe in stating 
that it would be at least two thousand roubles per annum. 
The only condition he makes is, that the moral character 
of the candidate shall be unexceptionable; for he must 
confide to him the most valuable results of his labors — 
researches to which his whole life has been devoted. This 
savant will pass the winter at St. Petersburg, to complete 


144 


SONIA. 


his examination of some manuscripts in the Imperial 
library; then early in the spring, he wishes to travel, 
taking his secretary with him, and proposes to pass two 
years visiting the various libraries of Europe. When the 
books are published — the result of all these researches — 
the secretary may rely on receiving a reward proportion- 
ate to his services. 

Not knowing whether this proposal would be acceptable 
to you, or that your engagements will permit you to leave 
Moscow, I have not yet uttered your name. It may be that 
you will think your liberty too sweet to relinquish it. 
Nevertheless, I advise you as a sincere friend, who has 
your interest much at heart, to accept this offer without 
delay. I expect to receive a formal ^ yes ’ from you, and, 
in the meantime, you may regard the affair as concluded. 
If you accept, do not disturb yourself by any material 
difficulties; everything will be settled in the most desi- 
rable way. Besides, on arriving at St. Petersburg, you 
will at once come to me, and we will consult together.^^ 

The first impression upon Boris was that of intense 
relief and joy. How delightful that he could pursue his 
studies under such conditions ! 

But then came the recollection of Lydie. How could 
he separate himself from her? Impossible! and yet it 
was equally impossible for him at the beginning of his 
career to throw aside such an opening. His heart swelled 
with gratitude toward Arraianof. Bely on me, as on a 
real friend,’’ the Prince had said. What friend could have 
done better, or behaved with more delicacy ? 


SONIA. 


145 


These various ideas made such a turmoil in the young 
man’s head, that he never closed his eyes that night. The 
morning found him feverish and uncertain — tempted to 
refuse at once, to put an end to the uncertainty in which 
he was. In another moment he wavered again, and 
decided to accept the position otfered through Armianof 
without delay. Finally he came to the conclusion that 
he had no right to take so important a step without con- 
sulting Lydie. 

The next day was Sunday. It was possible that he 
might see her at church, and he determined to postpone 
his answer to Armianof ’s letter until he had at least made 
the attempt j but the feverish impatience with which he 
watched the passage of the hours may be imagined rather 
than described. 

The night was endless ; finally, at four o’clock, he heard 
the bell for matins; then there was the usual stir and 
bustle in the streets, modified to Boris by the seclusion of 
the quarter in which he dwelt ; and at last it was time for 
him to start. 

While making his toilette, Boris had looked at himself 
in the mirror. He was really startled at his pallor, 
and at his worn and weary look. His features were 
drawn, and looked almost as if they had grown thinner 
in the night, and any one would have supposed him to 
be recovering from a long illness. It was not .alone 
the anxieties and uncertainties of these last few days 
which had so changed him ; the slow torture of the three 
previous months had deeply shaken the springs of his 
being. 


9 


146 


SONIA. 


This state of things must come to an end ! ” he said to 
himself, resolutely. If Lydie wishes me to remain, I 
will at once dismiss the whole project.’’ 

Before ten o’clock he was on the square where stands 
IJEglise du Bien Heureux-Vassili ; he watched for 

the coming of his fiancee. The parti-colored roofs, the 
innumerable gilded cupolas, the fantastic form of this 
singular church, alone in the world for the oddity and 
originality of its architecture, annoyed the young man in a 
very marked degree ; for was it not quite probable that 
Lydie would enter through one of those side chapels with- 
out his seeing her ? 

He passed three hours of this anguish of expectation, 
only to be understood by persons who can recall similar 
ones ; finally, Lydie, with her maid, appeared on the other 
side of the square. 

It was a clear December morning ; the bright sunshine 
sparkled on the gilded roofs of the churches of the Krem- 
lin ; the thick snow, which had fallen during the night, 
covered the ground and pavements with its glittering 
purity, and the sky was as blue as turquoise. 

Lydie — her slender waist and exquisite shoulders 
closely defined in her black velvet pardessus, a pink hat 
encircling her fresh face, and her hands buried in her 
muff — advanced with a slow, swinging step that was by 
no means devoid of grace ; her maid, clumsy and red, was 
an extraordinary contrast to her mistress. 

Boris watched them from where he stood ; but he did 
not dare to go and meet Lydie; she, however, perceiving 
him, made a little sign, and he followed her into the 
cliurch. 


SONIA. 


147 


They passed through long, shadowy galleries, where 
candles burning before the Holy Images, which were 
glittering with precious stones and gold embroidery, threw 
strange reflections on certain angles, leaving the recesses 
in deep and mysterious darkness. 

From the choir came the swelling tones chanting the 
solemn prayers of the Advent season. 

Lydie leaned against a pillar in a dark corner, made the 
sign of the cross several times in a mechanical way ; then 
turning toward Boris, she said : 

You do not look well. You should not have come 
out to-day 

I had something very important to communicate to 
you,” he answered, drawing so closely to her that she 
alone could hear his faint whisper. 

^^What has happened now? Anything unpleasant?” 
she answered, with an air of annoyance. 

No, sweetheart ; not precisely disagreeable.” 

And with his head bowed down, as if absorbed in his 
devotions, he related to her in clear and brief terms 
the proposition and letter he had received, suppressing 
only — and why he could not have told — the name of his 
correspondent. 

This, Lydie did not ask. She listened in silence, not 
without emotion ; but of what nature was this emotion ? 
She did not herself know ; and when he had told his 
story and relapsed into silence, she did not speak. 

^^Well!” said Boris, in astonishment; ‘^have you 
nothing to say ? ” 

What have you decided ? ” 


148 


SONIA. 


On nothing as yet. I await your reply, and will, of 
course, do precisely as you wish. If you say ^ remain,^ I 
remain.’’ 

Without a pang?” said Lydie, much touched. 

Without a pang, since I am fulfilling your wishes. 
You know that I live only for you ! ” 

Lydie pressed the hand which held her own. The 
invisible choir uttered at intervals the responses, which 
swelled to the dome far above their heads. Boris, with 
bowed head, listened for the words which would decide 
his destiny. 

Why should you not go ? ” she said, at last, with a 
strange mixture in her voice of shame and sorrow. Here 
you can find nothing to do. You had best go ! ” 

^^And this is your advice?” murmured Boris, with a 
sinking heart. 

He had hoped that she would tell him to remain. 

Yes, go ; it will be best.” 

He looked at her earnestly, hoping to discover some 
hesitation and tenderness in her lovely face; but the 
flickering flame threw it alternately into light and shadow, 
and made it impossible for him to snatch any definite 
expression. 

Would you wish to be all that time without seeing 
me ? Can you be happy away from me ? ” 

The girl’s hand trembled in his. “ Good Lord, have 
pity upon us,” sang the choir, in a minor key, only to be 
caught up and repeated in a clear, ringing voice that rang 
above them like a lark in the morning sky. The cry 
re-echoed among the pillars and arches, and seemed as if 


SONIA. 


149 


an angeFs heart was breaking with grief up among the 
stars. 

Boris repeated, You wish me to go away then ? ” 

Yes,” she said, with irrepressible impatience. 

Lydie, do you realize what you say ? It will be two 
years, probably three, that will elapse without our meeting 
in that case ? ” 

He still hoped that she would object to his going. 

It will be best I ” she repeated, half sullenly. 

He fell on his knees in front of her, as if in prayer, 
and pressed his burning lips on her hand, on which fell at 
the same time more than one hot tear. She too wept under 
her veil. What woman could have been unmoved by 
such despair? 

She leaned over him, ^^Kise,” she said, ^^we are 
remarked.” 

He . obeyed, and his features assumed the rigidity of 
marble. 

You desire it, Lydie? Very well, it shall be as you 
will. I thank you. You are more courageous than I. 
I should never have been able to come to this decision. 
In two years and six months I will return. Then I 
shall be rich and famous. You will be my wife?” 

Lydie bowed in assent. 

Speak ! Say that you will be my wife ! ” he persisted, 
with feverish energy. 

Yes,” she murmured, faintly. 

A strange notion here entered the young man’s mind. 
At this time he felt the need of some solemn promise, of 
an irrevocable oath, to inspire him with confidence. 


150 


SONIA. 


Before our Saviour/^ he said, pointing toward a marble 
image, which looked down upon them calmly, the world 
in one hand and the other uplifted in sign of command — 
“Before our Lord and Master, swear to be mine! 

“I cannot swear,” said Lydie, in terror; “it is a great 
sin to swear — but I give you my promise.” 

“Then pray with me,” he answered, in a fierce whisper, 
and taking her hand again, he led her to the image faintly 
lighted by a lamp and by two or three small candles. He 
held her hand tightly, and Lydie made no resistance, but 
was obliged to yield. They sank on their knees side by 
side. But Boris could not pray ; he could only think of 
the girl at his side. She could not J)ray, either ; she was 
frightened. It seemed to her that they were committing 
a sacrilege, and she asked herself if God would not punish 
her for what they were doing. 

An old woman, carrying a very small candle as an 
offering to the image, said to them, in an entreating tone : 

“A few pennies, for the love of Christ ! May He bless 
your marriage.” 

Lydie rose hastily. Boris drew out a silver piece and 
gave it to the old woman, who turned away, overwhelming 
him with benedictions. The congregation began to dis- 
perse. Children’s voices sang the last prayers of the mass, 
and Lydie whispered abruptly in her lover’s ear : 

“Adieu!” 

“I must see you again,” said Boris, resolutely. “ I can- 
not say farewell in this way.” 

“But that is impossible ! Where can I see you? ” 

“At my own rooms,” he said, in the tones of a master. 


SONI A» 


151 


Come with Dounia. If you choose, she can remain in 
the room with you all the time. It is impossible for it to 
be known ; but I must talk freely with you.’' 

You must not talk freely to me, if Dounia is to hear 
you; remember that,” answered Lydie, with a little air 
of superiority. ^^And if she accompanies me, she will 
exercise too much power over me for evermore ; I shall 
never be my own mistress again.” 

The maid, a few steps in the background, feigned, to 
have seen nothing that had been going on. 

Boris saw that Lydie was right in what she said, but 
her reasoning seemed none the less cold to him because he 
realized that it was in the main correct. 

‘‘Well, then,” he said, after a few moments reflection, 
“ where can I see you? Find a place yourself.” 

“ When must you go ? ” 

“A week from to-day, probably.” 

“ Then on Saturday, at eleven o’clock, be here during 
mass. During the week- there are few persons at that 
hour.” 

“Very well.” 

A sudden rush of people here separated them ; he had 
no time for another word. He left the church hastily by a 
side door and presently saw Lydie a few steps in front 
of him. The careless grace of her movements had not 
changed. She moved slowly and languidly, evidently 
undisturbed by any new or violent emotion. 

He followed her with his eyes as long as he could see 
her, and then returned to his lonely rooms, his heart full 
of indescribable sadness. He asked himself whence came 


152 


SONIA. 


the strange impulse which had made him take the Blessed 
Image as the witness of his oath. Was it, that in the 
great emotions of life, one returns mechanically to one’s 
childish recollections and habits ? 

While Lydie hurried toward her home, Dounia said 
to her: 

Monsieur Boris is going away, is he ?” 

^^Yes.” 

^^For long?” 

‘^For two or three years.” 

am thankful to hear it, mademoiselle; for if he were 
not here, you would find a handsome husband, good and 
rich, ready waiting for you.” 

Lydie pretending not to hear this remark, made no 
answer. 


SONIA. 


153 


CHAPTER Xyi, 


PKEPARATIONS 



IHAT same evening Gr6bof wrote to the Prince, and 


-L while awaiting his reply went to take leave of his 
mother. On his unexpected arrival the old lady was 
certain that something of importance was impending. It 
was useless for her son to employ any circuitous methods 
of conveying the information with which he had come 


laden. 


“I understand, my son. You have come to tell me 
that you are going to leave me for some time. Otherwise 
you would never have waited until Christmas. Tell me, 
are you sure of doing well?^^ 

His mothers calmness and quiet resignation lifted a 
great weight from her son’s heart, who finally summoned 
courage to give her the details of the proposition which 
would change the whole tenor of his life. As he explained 
the new future which stretched indefinitely before him, he 
was amazed to find that his own heart grew lighter. A 
heavy burthen, unconsciously borne until then, seemed to 
have dropped from his shoulders. Life still meant labor, 
in his eyes; but this was labor of a different kind — 
agreeable to his intellectual tastes — and not the incessant, 
ever-recurring warfare of every-day life in pursuit of 
material needs. 


154 


SONIA. 


Madame Grdbof listened to him, and watched him with 
the keen eyes of maternal affection, following his discourse 
with all the concentration of mind of which she was 
capable. Astonished at her not interrupting him, Boris 
stopped in the midst of some gay phrase. 

“ You say nothing, dear mother.” 

I am listening,” she answered, and calling upon my 
son the blessing of the Lord.” 

^^You give your permission, then!” he exclaimed, 
snatching his mother’s white and dimpled hand, and 
pressing it to his lips. 

“If you feel that to go will make you happy,” she 
replied, “ what objection could I make? God will perhaps 
be good enough to let me live to welcome you back 
again.” 

Boris fell on his knees before her. The idea of losing 
this beloved mother had never yet come to disturb him ; 
he had always had the vague thought and impression 
that they would together descend into the valley of 
years, and that when he himself was old and gray, that 
his mother with her white head would still occupy one 
side of the chimney. She would be very aged, of 
course, but she would be there, the incarnation of goodness 
on earth. 

“ Mother,” he murmured, his heart filled with anguish, 
“ mother, I will return to you. If you are ill, write to 
me, or tell the doctor to write, and I will come at once, I 
swear to you ! ” 

“No, do not swear,” said his pious mother, laying her 
hand gently on his lips. “The good Lord will punish 


SONIA. 


155 


you if you break His commandments. You will try to 
come back, dear ; say that, and I shall be satisfied.” 

Yes, dear mother, I promise,” he murmured in a low, 
broken voice. Do you wish me to remain ? ” 

“ No, my son ; go. After so many trials I should like 
to see my boy rich and happy.” 

She smiled, her eyes swimming in tears ; and Boris 
smiled in return, without releasing the two hands, which 
he pressed at intervals to his lips. 

^^Then you go to-morrow?” said his mother, after a 
long silence. 

The day after to-morrow.” 

^^Then to-morrow prayers shall be said in the church 
for a safe journey for you. When do you leave Moscow?” 

Saturday or Sunday.” 

You will write to me?” 

Before I leave, and as soon as I arrive.” 

That is well, and afterward you will write every week. 
Have you shirts enough ? ” 

I do not know. I suppose so.” 

have two or three pieces of fine linen. I kept 
them for your marriage.” Boris started slightly; his 
mother glanced at him inquiringly, and then sighed. 

I will set all my women to work, and before you go 
I will have at least a half dozen ready for you. Wait a 
moment.” 

She took her keys from a little basket which was always 
close at hand, and she went out of the room with a slow 
and languid step, to look for something in her wardrobe,” 
she said. 


156 


SONIA. 


Boris sat motionless just where she left him. She went 
into her room and carefully closed the doors. He re- 
mained there alone for some time, thinking of his past, 
dreaming of his future. The window, fitted with a double 
sash, permitted him to see nothing — nothing save a vast 
horizon of snow, overhung by a pale gray sky; but this 
humble dwelling, bounded by this modest horizon, was 
very sweet and dear to him. His heart was filled with 
both sadness and hope, and, above all, with the tenderest 
love for that dear mother whom he was about to leave in 
solitude under the shadow of advancing years. He had 
his face in his hands. 

A light noise aroused him from his sad thoughts. He 
started, fearing to be surprised by his mother. It was not 
she, however; it was Sonia, who stood on the threshold, 
looking at him with eyes full of tears. Boris had hardly 
seen her and had merely addressed a word or two to her 
as he entered the house. For two hours, crouched outside 
the door, she had waited for some greeting from her 
master. Not hearing a sound, she determined to enter the 
room ; but her courage failed, and she dared not cross the 
threshold. 

^‘Master, are you sad?” she said, in a low voice. 

“It is nothing, little one,” answered the young man, 
kindly. “ How you have grown, my child ! ” 

She had not grown, but her long skirts fell to the ankles, 
which were encased in gray woollen stockings, and her 
small feet in stout leather shoes. She followed her master’s 
glance. 

“You bade me wear shoes,” she said, “and I wear 


SONIA. 


157 


them. They cost a silver rouble, and I knit the stockings 
myself! 

“ You have learned then to knit,^’ Boris replied, pre- 
tending to be very much astonished. 

To be sure. I have learned many things. I have 
knit some stockings for you, too, master.” 

She drew from under her apron an enormous pair of 
gray stockings, and brought them to Boris, her face radiant 
with smiles and blushes, a look of triumph lurking in the 
corners of her mouth and under her downcast lids. 

That is extremely well done,” said Boris, with the air 
of a connoisseur, and they will keep me deliciously warm 
on my journey. I thank you.” 

It is I who will keep your room in order, is it not, 
master ? ” she said, eagerly. Shall you be here long ? ” 

Until the day after to-morrow only.” 

Only until then I O master ! now that I know how 
to sew and knit, and have learned many other things 
beside, why will you not take me to Moscow to wait on 
you there?” 

Not yet,” answered the young man, with a smile and 
a sigh. 

Madame Gr^bof ’s door opened softly. Sonia fled like 
a startled sparrow, and the old lady came in with two or 
three pieces of linen on her arm. 

She had been weeping, but her face was now calm. 
Boris ran to relieve her from her burthen, and covered 
her cheeks with kisses. She put her arms around him ; 
she uttered one sob, but quickly recovered herself, pushing 
her son aside with a sigh of resignation^ 


158 


SONIA. 


It is the will of God/’ she said, drying her eyes with 
a corner of the linen. But we must go to work. We 
have no time to lose. Tell me what you have and what 
you need. I have laid aside a couple of hundred roubles, 
and it shall not be said that my son reached the capital 
like a penniless orphan. Sit down, now, and make out 
the list.” 


SONIA. 


159 


CHAPTER Xyil. 

SONIA^S FAREWELL. 

• 

”TT7”HEN it came evening, and he entered the little 
’ » room which he was not to see again for so long, 
Boris found Sonia awaiting him in the doorway. 

I came to take your coat to brush,” she said, in an 
explanatory manner. 

Boris mechanically handed her his overcoat, and then 
took his seat at the table, which as a boy he had disfigured 
with a penknife. The recollections of his childhood came 
to him by hundreds ; everything in the house seemed to 
be interwoven with the past. Sonia pulled his sleeve. 

What do you want?” he said, arousing himself. 

The child’s eyes were dilated as in those dark days of 
her melancholy dependence ; a look of mad fury distorted 
her face. 

I hear that you are going on a long journey, Boris 
Ivanovitch. Is it true ? ” 

Certainly, it is quite true,” answered Boris, astonished 
at her quick, sharp way of speaking. 

You are going to run away with the young lady.” 
‘^What an idea! Indeed I am not. What put that 
into your head ?” 

Then you do not love her any longer ? ” 

'^That, my child, does not concern you.” 

^^And is it true that you will be away two years?” 


160 


SONIA. 


Yes, it is quite true.” 

Will you not take me with you?” 

I cannot, my poor child,” answered Boris, shrugging 
his shoulders. It is quite out of the question. I do not 
even know myself where I am going. I am not free, 
Sonia,” he added, noticing the bewildered look in the girFs 
face ; I must go wdiere another man bids me go — a good 
man, to be sure, but he will control all my movements.” 

You wish to go with him, though?” 

To be sure ; that I may be able to work as much as I 
like ! ” 

Sonia’s head drooped; she reflected for a minute or two, 
but the problem offered was too difficult for her solution. 
She could not understand, and she returned to her first 
idea. 

Take me with you, master,” she urged ; you prom- 
ised never to abandon me ! ” 

I do not abandon you,” answered Boris, somewhat 
impatiently. “ I have placed you with my mother, and I 
do not think she will make you very miserable!” 

Oh, no I she is just like you I” 

Boris laughed. 

But it is not the same thing,” continued Sonia, wdth 
persistent obstinacy. ‘‘I love Varvara Petrovna very 
much, but it is with you that I wish to go.” 

“ But I cannot take you,” answered Boris, with some 
severity ; and, hopeless of making the little savage under- 
stand him, he added : 

^^Just see how small and thin you are ! How could 
you wash the linen, carry water and wood up four flights 


SONIA. 


161 


of stairs? You see it is impossible for you to be my 
servant yet a while.’^ 

Poor little Sonia, mortified and discouraged, cast a 
mournful glance at her slender self and her tiny hands. 
A long silence followed ; Boris, much amused, watched her 
out of the corners of his eyes. 

^^And when I am big and strong, you will take me?” 

Certainly,” answered the young man, with great 
gravity. ‘^But you must learn howto wash and iron, 
cook, and mend the linen.” 

I know how to do all that now,” answered Sonia, 
raising her head proudly. 

^‘And many other things, which I forget now,” added 
Boris, at the end of his catalogue. 

“ But when I knowhow to do them all, you will take me?” 

‘‘You must, above all, learn to live in peace with the 
other servants,” added the young man, reprovingly. “ I 
am told that you are always quarrelling with some one. 
It is not sufficient to obey one’s masters ; you must live in 
peace with your companions.” 

Sonia said no more ; she stood rolling the corner of her 
apron in her fingers. Without being aware of it, Boris 
had touched her on a most vulnerable point. The other 
servants in the house were continually telling the small, 
wild creature, that she could never be of any use to her 
master if she did not first learn to put up with the caprices 
of her equals. 

“I will try to do as you say,” she murmured, after a 
brief silence, “and when I have grown very gentle you 
will take me with you, will you not?” 

10 


162 


SONIA. 


‘‘Yes! yes!’’ answered Boris, “now be off with you! 
It is late, and I am very tired. Good-night.” 

“ Good-night, master ! ” 

And, with many a childish sob, she softly shut the door 
upon her slender figure. Boris, absorbed in thought, did 
not hear the sound of her new shoes in the corridor. 
Without attaching any importance to this circumstance he 
was on the point of putting out the light, when he heard 
a sob just outside his door. He listened. The noise was 
regular. He opened the door cautiously. Prostrate on 
the floor, Sonia was weeping her little heart out. 

“Will you go to bed?” he said, as he lifted her to her 
feet. 

The child’s strength was gone ; and, as she leaned help- 
lessly against him, she murmured : 

“Ah, master, I love you so dearly ! and it will be so 
long before I see you again !” 

“ I will come back,” answered Boris, touched by all this 
love. “ I will come back, and you will see me as much 
as you wish.” 

“ If you would but promise to take me some day as 
your own servant.” 

“ I will take you if you will become an obedient little 
girl — 

“ I will do everything you tell me.” 

“Very well, then, go to bed at once, sleep well, and 
to-morrow morning at seven o’clock come and bring me a 
cup of milk warm from the cow, just as you used to do, 
you remember.” 

“Yes, master!” said the child, half comforted, and she 
disappeared in the darkness of the corridor. 


SONIA. 


163 


The next day passed both quietly and slowly ; and, on 
the third morning, when Boris opened his eyes, he could 
hardly tell whether it was a year or a day since his return 
to the country. He soon recalled the fact that he must 
be off in a few hours for Moscow, and he hurried through 
with his toilette. His mother presently appeared. She was 
calm but very sad. Her loving care had thought of every- 
thing, and many times, during his journey, did Boris have 
occasion to bless the hand which had anticipated his least 
want. 

The tightly-packed valises were buckled at last. The 
village priest had come to share the traveller’s last meal 
under the maternal roof, and to recite prayers for the safe 
return of a traveller ; and in a few minutes the sledge, 
with its merry rattle of bells, drew up before the door. 
The time had come. 

Madame Gr^bof held her son in her arms. The tears, 
which she could no longer restrain, now fell fast as she 
gave her boy her blessing. Her voice failed her. Boris 
caught only a low murmur, but he did not need to hear 
the w'ords to understand their meaning : “ Eemember your 
mother,” said those;. remember that for twenty-two 
years you have been her sole interest in life ; that you have 
been her care and her joy; that she has had but one 
thought, one wish, and one aim, to make an honest, culti- 
vated man of you. Eemember, that she would give her 
very life to insure your happiness, but that she w'ould 
wrap the winding-sheet about you with her own hands 
rather than see you smirched and stained by low associa- 
tions or dishonesty.” 


164 


SONIA. 


Boris fully realized all this, and if he said nothing in 
his turn his reply was fully understood by the heart which 
beat so sadly against his own. 

One word of adieu to the faithful old servants, and 
Sonia — where was she ? ^ 

They looked for her in every direction, but failed to 
find her; Boris charged his mother with an affectionate 
message for the orphan, and then all of them — mistress 
and servants — well wrapped in furs, went out upon the 
balcony. 

The snow was falling in large, soft flakes like swans^ 
down upon the ground, which was already covered deeply 
by preceding storms. There was not a breath of wind ; 
the sky was gray, and seemed hung lower than usual, 
while the silence was almost oppressive. 

The villagers had all assembled to take leave of their 
young master. Boris looked among them anxiously, but 
there was no Sonia there. Somewhat disturbed by the 
strange absence of the child, he once more bade them take 
every care of her; and kissing his mother again and again, 
he took his seat in the sledge, and took oft’ his hat in 
adieu to the loving crowd. 

His mother raised her hands in benediction. The 
sledge started, driving slowly through the open gate, and 
then flew over the snow with the rapidity of the wind. 

The church disappeared behind him; then, one after 
the other, all the white-roofed houses in the village; then 
came the huge gate, held open by the children for his 
sledge to pass through. 

Boris sighed, and turned for one backward glance. The 


SONIA. 


165 


fast falling snow shut out every glimpse of his mother’s 
home. He only caught a glimpse of a gray mass, which 
faded away in another moment. But at the turn of the 
road, near a grove of firs, stood a small figure with its 
angles all rounded by the snow, with which it was half- 
covered. 

It was Sonia, who made a sign to the coachman to stop. 
A little hood on her head, a thin jacket over her shoulders, 
and with a small bundle under her arm, she was waiting 
here for Boris. 

Sonia ! ” cried Boris, much pleased at seeing her, I 
have been looking everywhere for you.” 

Master! take me with you,” said the child, in an 
agony of supplication. I will be so good ! ” She fixed 
her large eyes on her master. I will do all you tell me 
— I wdll quarrel with no one — I am already to go — take 
me with you ! ” 

I cannot, my child ; you know I cannot. Go back to 
the house ; it is growing very cold.” 

Farewell, master ! ” she answered, in a heart-broken 
voice. I wdll do all you have bidden.” 

“And then you shall go with me,” answered Boris, 

gayly- 

“ You are in earnest?” 

“ Yesj in earnest; you shall go with me if you still wish 
it — that is,” added the young man, who took it for granted 
that this notion would pass away with time. 

The half-frozen hands of the little girl were clasped in 
those of Boris, who leaned over and kissed her hair, which 
was powdered with fine snow. 


166 


SONIA. 


She drew back to allow the sledge to pass. 

Au revoir I said Boris, looking back. 

God keep you ! was her reply. 

The sledge went swiftly on, but until they reached a 
sharp turn, a mile or more away, Boris, looking back 
from time to time, could see that the child had not moved 
from the spot where he had left her. 

When Boris was far on his road to Moscow, Sonia 
reached his mother’s house again. 

Where on earth have you been ? ” cried Dacha, when 
she saw her. Everybody has been in search of you, and 
the master has gone without your having said good-bye 
to him.” 

I have seen the master, and bidden him farewell^” 
answered the child. 

How was that ? ” 

“Down the road a bit.” - , 

“ And why could you not have stayed here, and said 
good-bye to him in a Christian fashion ? ” 

Sonia made no reply, but dropped her head and took 
up her work. Each of the servants, one after the other, 
reproached her in much the same terms, but she did not 
lose her temper. 

“ How queer she is ! ” said the laundress, her old enemy, 
at supper. “ She, who always is as fierce as a little rooster 
and flies in your face at the smallest contradiction, is as 
mild as a lamb to-night.” 

Sonia did not speak ; every eye was turned upon her. 

“ Why do you not get angry, as usual ? ” repeated the 
laundress. 


SONIA. 


167 


Because the master forbade it,” answered the child. 

From this time forth no amount of teasing would dis- 
turb her resolute silence; and, as in that blessed house- 
hold there was no one maliciously disposed, peace soon 
reigned around Madame Grebof ’s sad and patient grief. 

On reaching Moscow on Wednesday evening, Boris 
found the reply of the Prince awaiting him. He was 
expected at once, he learned, at St. Petersburg. He must 
therefore start at once — the next day — if possible. The 
letter contained a check for a considerable amount ‘Ho 
cover the expenses of moving and travelling,” said 
Armianof. 

After having spent a part of the night in putting his 
papers in order, Boris, toward morning, ventured to take 
a little rest. At ten o’clock he went out, bought at a 
jeweller’s two plain gold rings, and then went on to 
L^Eglise du Bienlleureux- Vassiliy where Lydie had prom- 
ised to meet him on that day. 

His heart beat fast when he entered the doors ; did this 
moment precede a long or final separation ? Were he and 
Lydie never to meet again? He said to himself with 
utter incredulity that this was not possible, for the mind 
refuses sometimes to admit certain things, even when the 
evidence is clear and distinct. 

Besides, the ring which he intended to place on Lydie’s 
hand would be in itself a tie between them. Would she 
not see it constantly, and would it not always speak to 
her of her fianc4? 


168 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER XVIII. 

A EAILWAY STATION. 

M orning prayers were over, and Lydie had not 
appeared. Devoured by impatience, Boris went 
out two or three times to inspect the square. He looked 
through the church, too, and examined the most obscure 
corners, but she was not there. 

The choristers went out, and then the priests ; then, by 
degrees, the last loiterers disappeared, and finally the 
beadle put out the candles, leaving in the church only those 
lights which were always kept burning over each Image. 

Boris left the church slowly, his heart sore with bitter- 
ness and snspense. 

^^Has she been surprised, and prevented from going 
out? Is she ill 

Such had been his fears, one succeeding the other; then 
came the thought that the loss of this interview was irre- 
parable, and that he must leave Moscow without seeing 
Lydie. He said then that she might have written ; that 
the letter was probably waiting for him then, and he 
hastened to his rooms. 

Their aspect was most dismal, as is always the case when 
people are about going off. The furniture was displaced ; 
books were scattered here and there; a coat lay on a chair 
— a cup of tea on the table — papers on the floor ; in fact, 
the room was so unutterably dreary, that he felt as if a 


SONIA. 


169 


corpse was to be carried away, and that this corpse was 
himself, wrapped in his despair as in a winding-sheet. 

He questioned the woman who waited on him — tlien the 
concierge; but no one had been there, and no note had 
been sent, or, at all events, received. 

Boris seated himself on a valise, put his head in his 
hands, and prayed for strength and patience. 

“ I must make another effort,’’ he said, at last. “ I will 
walk past her house, until I see some sign of her, and I 
am sure that she will find some way of sending me a word.” 

He was dressing when the postman came. Boris almost 
snatched the letter he extended ; and shutting himself in 
his room, tore open the envelope, and read the following 
letter in much agitation. The letter was dated the night 
before. Lydie wrote : 

^^Dear Boms: — I am going to a ball. I shall not 
return until four or five o’clock in the morning, and, of 
course, you will admit that under such circumstances I 
cannot rise early enough to go to church ; besides, I am 
really very tired after a ball, and this fact is so well known 
that every one would notice it, if I should go out at an 
early hour. I cannot, therefore, say adieu to you — I can 
only write it, which makes me very unhappy. I wish 
you a pleasant journey, and much happiness ! ” 

At this point, the young girl had evidently stopped to 
reflect, for a large space separated these words from the 
following lines. She continued : 

“My dear Boris, I hope that you will succeed in all 


170 


SONIA. 


your undertakings, and that you will be very happy. I 
shall remember all my life long the happy days we passed 
together in the country, and I beg you not to forget me 
when you are so far away. Write me all that you do, and 
think of— Lydie.” 

This letter fell from the hands of the young man, and 
fluttering to the floor, lay there unheeded. 

'^And she went to the ball ! I shall never see her again ! 
he murmured, and his heart grew cold and hard as marble. 
^‘She was calmly sleeping, while I, consumed with im- 
patience and longing, awaited her coming. She loves me 
no longer ! ’’ 

He walked up and down the room, taking no heed 
where his feet fell,, stumbling over any obstacles which 
lay in his way, and really hurting himself against the 
angles of the furniture, while his hands were half-benumbed 
by the violence of the blows he had thus received. 

He was insensible to pain — or it is quite possible that 
physical pain was acceptable to him as a distraction to his 
thoughts, which persistently dwelt on his anguish and 
disappointment. 

^‘Ah ! well, I must go ! he said, aloud. He looked at 
his watch ; he was too late for that train. I will wait 
until to-morrow, and, in the meantime, will move heaven 
and earth to see her ! 

He put his room slightly in order, summoned the pro- 
prietor, and told him that he should remain another night 
in Moscow, and then went out, resolved not to return until 
lie had seen Lydie, or was certain of seeing her. 


SONIA. 


171 


Night comes on early in the month of December. A 
dense, cold fog wrapped the city roundabout. The lamp- 
lighters were slowly going their rounds, and by degrees 
the mass of fog was broken by shining points. Boris 
pulled up the collar of his overcoat, pressed his fur cap 
down over his eyes, and took up a position before the 
house where Lydie resided. 

An hour, then two hours elapsed without his seeing that 
Fortune was disposed to aid him in any way. It was the 
dinner hour on each one of the different floors. Boris was 
not conscious that he had eaten nothing since early morn- 
ing — indeed, he ^\^s conscious of nothing. He stood with 
his eyes fixed on the porte cochere, expressing — he hardly 
knew what. 

After a long time, he finally saw Dounia coming out — 
Dounia was Lydie’s maid. She looked very important, and 
hurried past, as if overwhelmed with business. He took 
her by the arm so abruptly that she uttered a little shriek. 

Be quiet ! he said ; it is I — Gr^bof ! What is your 
mistress doing?’’ 

She is going to a soiree, and I am sent for her pelerine, 
that the laundress has not brought home. I have no time 
to waste in talking,” added the soubrette, saucily, as she 
shook off Grebof’s hand. 

“I must see your mistress — I will see her, do you 
understand ? ” and the young man took advantage of a 
street-lamp to put into her hand a pink ten rouble note. 

Dounia took the note with a cursory “ thank you,” and 
still continuing her way, decided to aid the young man if 
she could. 


172 


SONIA. 


When do you go?” she asked. 

To-morrow, by the express.” 

Then we will go to the train, and say good-bye to you 
there,” said the ingenious Dounia, her intellect quickened 
by the sight of the pink note. There is such a crowd 
in the waiting-room, that you will not be noticed.” 

Very well !” answered Boris, with sudden calmness; 
but I warn you, if you are not there, that I shall not go, 
but will remain until I see your mistress ; for I will not 
leave Moscow until I do, if I am compelled to find her in 
her parents’ house by the full light of day! How is she?” 

‘^Ah, monsieur, she has had a frightful headache all day 
long,” said Dounia, in her wheedling voice. Last night 
they dragged her to the ball. She has cried all the time, 
when her parents could not see her. She is miserable 
because you are going 1 ” 

The ice around the young man’s heart seemed to crack 
at these words. 

“She has cried all the time?” he repeated, slowly. 

“All day long, sir. This is where the laundress lives. 
Come to the station early, sir ; we will be there an hour 
before the train leaves. Good-night, sir!” 

She disappeared in a house, and Boris, his heart buoy- 
ant with hope, but with an occasional pang of remorse at 
what he called his injustice toward her, returned to his 
rooms, called for a cutlet, and eat it moreover with a hearty 
appetite, and then going to bed, slept soundly for twelve 
hours. And Dounia, while she dressed the hair of her young 
mistress, told her all that had taken place, with the excep- 
tion of the ten roubles, be it understood, and insisted on 


SONIA. 


173 


the accomplishment of the promise she had made for the 
next day. 

“Why did you promise it?^’ said Lydie, with a blush. 
“ It was you who advised me only yesterday not to see 
Boris Ivanovitch again, and now, to-night, you arrange an 
interview with him.’’ 

“ But, mademoiselle,” replied the astute soubrette, “ he 
declares that he will not leave Moscow until he has seen 
you ; that he will even come here in broad daylight. With 
such a madman as that, you must yield something in 
order to keep the peace.” 

“ How he loves me ! ” said Lydie, thoughtfully. 

The breezy shadows of the country came back to her 
memory, and with that the recollection of the passionate 
adoration and kisses of her lover. 

“Yes, and to reward him, do what he asks,” interposed 
Dounia, with a coarse laugh, as she placed the last rose- 
bud in the girl’s hair. 

Lydie was silent for a moment. 

“ We are not doing right ! ” she said at last. “We are 
deceiving him, and if he should discover the truth — 

“ But he is going away, mademoiselle ; and how can he 
learn anything then that is going on here? You know 
very well, miss, that this Monsieur Boris is no match for 
you, with his years of waiting! The idea of a pretty 
young lady like you losing two or three years, dancing 
attendance on a poor Tutor, when she could marry to- 
morrow a rich young man, good-looking, too.” 

“But I ought not to have said that I would wait for 
him ! ” exclaimed Lydie, with a last pang of an expiring 
conscience. 


174 


SONIA. 


Tell him then at once that you love him no longer, 
and that you are about to marry some on-e else. If you 
only have the courage to say this frankly to him, you will 
get rid of him at once ; only in his rage he is quite capa- 
ble of killing you. If you knew how he hurt me when 
he took hold of me in the street; I declare my arm is 
perfectly black ! ” 

Lydie continued to roll the ends of her ribbons between 
her undecided fingers. 

You need not, to be sure, say this all to him. You 
can treat him kindly and get him off quietly,” said 
Dounia, insinuatingly ; “ and after a while you can grad- 
ually cease to answer his letters ; and in short, there are a 
thousand ways of making him understand that you do not 
wish to have anything more to do with him. Come, 
mademoiselle, put on your fichu, and hurry, for your 
mamma is quite ready. Now, pray, do not cry; your 
eyes will be red.” 

^^But, Dounia, he will be so unhappy,” said Lydie, 
hesitatingly ; lie loves me so dearly, &nd yet I am going 
to give him up ! ” 

^^Do you wish to marry him then? Will you run 
away with him without trousseau or fortune, and with 
your- parents’ curses ? Where could you live? — in his hovel 
among the wolves at Gribova? Write a line to him, and 
tell him this, and he will come at once and carry you off, 
and you will have the rest of your life to gnaw your 
fingers and repent. You do not care to do this ! What a 
pity ! ” and the soubrette shrugged her shoulders with a 
contemptuous laugh. 


SONIA. 


175 


“You make me very angry, Dounia; you have no 
right to say such things ! sobbed Lydie, crushing her 
handkerchief in her trembling hands. 

“I tell you to do just as you choose with him. The 
more you hoodwink him now the better, as he will then 
go off without making a scene. You are very good to 
worry over him, upon my word ! You are going to give 
him up, you say? Very well ; just wait until he has been 
three months in St. Petersburg, and then see if he troubles 
himself rnuch about you ! It is you wdio will be given 
up if you pride yourself on your constancy. Did ever 
any man know how to be faithful ? I know something 
about them, mademoiselle ; for I had a fianc^, a well-to-do 
peddler. We were engaged; he went off on an expedition 
about the country ; our marriage was to take place on his 
return. He came back, of course ? By no means ! He 
married the daughter of a churchwarden way down in the 
country. All men are the same. If you are willing to 
bide their time, they just throw you over. You will see ! 

At this suggestion of desertion on the part of her lover, 
Lydie’s eyes flashed with anger. 

f “You are right she exclaimed. “Besides, we must 
not run any risk of a scene. It is so stupid to feel all the 
time afraid of being suspected, or caught, and reported to 
mamma. Give* me my fan ; I hear my father calling.” 

And she went down-stairs with that slow, queenly 
grace, which was natural to her. 

The next day Gr^bof was at the station long before the 
hour for the departure of the train. He was, however, by 
no means alone in his promptitude ; for in Kussia it seems 


176 


SONIA. 


to be the custom for every one to wait at least a half-hour 
for the opening of the gates at the station. 

By degrees the waiting-room became crowded with 
travellers laden with bags and shawls, and accompanied 
by parents and friends. The bright sunshine, and the 
day — Sunday — favoring the pleasant custom of seeing one’s 
friends fairly off, the common people at leisure on Sunday 
came tob, to watch the departure of the train. 

All these people came and went, talking and laughing 
gayly. Servants with three rows of red galloon on their 
sleeves hustled the crowd to take room for Madame La 
G^n^rale Something, and huge dogs followed their masters 
in a tranquil, dignified fashion, replying with superb dis- 
dain to all advances made by strangers. 

Boris had disposed of his luggage and small effects, and 
engaged a seat on the train, and then came back to the 
waiting-room, expecting to find Lydie there. His blood 
was boiling with grief or anger, he hardly knew which. 
The first stroke of the clock was heard. 

She will not come; I ought to have known it!” he 
said, with a return of that bitter scorn and indignation 
which he had felt the evening before. Suddenly the 
tension of his nerves relaxed. The pressure on his brain 
and heart was lifted ; for Lydie — her face set like a picture 
in her rose-colored bonnet — was slowly coming toward him. 
She was looking about with an anxious air, contracting 
her delicate brow with a slight frown, occasioned by her 
being a trifle near-sighted. She was prettier than ever, 
Boris thought. 

Breaking the charm he hurried forward, and with an 


SONIA. 


177 


air and manner which he sought to make indifferent, he 
greeted her with a ceremonious bow as she passed him. 
Tlien, preceding her, he guided her to an obscure corner 
which he had previously selected for their interview. 

Why are you so late ? The second bell will ring in 
one moment. We have a scant five minutes,” he said, as 
soon as they could speak to each other. 

I could not get away earlier ! ” she answered, in evi- 
dent annoyance : was it to quarrel with me that you sent 
forme?” 

Lydie, my child ! the moments are very precious : we 
must not lose them. Listen to me: I am going away; my 
absence will be very long ; answer me frankly : will you 
have the courage and strength to wait for me?” 

The young girFs face was covered with vivid blushes. 
Dounia standing well behind Boris, gave a little decided 
nod, and the young girl replied : 

Yes, I will wait for you !” 

You have thought seriously on this point?” 

She made a sign of assent. 

‘‘Very well, then! This is our engagement ring. 
From this moment you are my wife,” said Boris, taking 
her hand to place the ring upon it ; but the hand was 
gloved, and the ring would not go on. Somewhat dis- 
turbed, Lydie took it in her other hand. Her lover’s face 
was dark, but the girl’s smile reassured him. 

Remove your glove,” he said. 

With evident reluctance she obeyed him, but took off 
her left glove, not her right. 

The bell rang. Boris had but a moment more. He 

11 


178 


SONIA. 


placed one of the rings on the hand she extended, and the 
other upon his own finger. 

“You are my wife/^ he said, “in the sight of God, and 
I love you with my whole heart and soul. If ever I 
betray you, may Heaven punish me.’’ 

The station-master hurried through the rooms ringing 
his bell. The lovers were alone for a moment, for tardy 
travellers rushing past paid no heed to them. 

“ You hear, Lydie ! may heaven punish me, if I betray 
you. The day after to-morrow you will receive a letter 
from me.” 

“ You will lose the train,” interposed Dounia, officiously. 

“I love you,” continued the young man, unheeding 
this remonstrance ; his voice trembled and his eyes were 
full of tenderness. “ Lydie, you are my one hope, and 
the one object of my life. Remember this !” 

“ Ring the last bell ! ” called the station-master from 
without. 

Boris bent over Lydie, pressed a rapid kiss on her lips, 
pressed her slender fingers once more, and jumped into the 
first car, to the great displeasure of the conductor ; at the 
same moment the locomotive uttered a shrill whistle. 

“Just suppose he had missed the train!” muttered 
Dounia to her young mistress, who stood sad and pensive. 

The doors of the station were closed ; parents and friends 
had taken their departure, some with sad and hopeless 
faces, others gay and laughing, talking on indifferent sub- 
jects ; the two young women went with the current. 

Suddenly Lydie looked at the ring which Boris had placed 
on her finger. Impulsively, and as if in spite of herself, 


SONIA. 


179 


she pressed it to her lips, then passed her handkerchief 
slowly over her eyes. Her childish lips with difficulty 
closed over her sobs. She dropped her veil and quickened 
her steps. 

What a singular idea for him to give you a ring,^’ 
said Dounia, suddenly. '^Fortunately he placed it on 
your left hand and that amounts to nothing, you know ! ’’ 

Lydie made no reply, other than to press the ring a 
second time to her lips. 

" Take care that your mamma does not see it ! ’’ continued 
Dounia. 

In silence the young girl drew off her ring, not without 
great difficulty, and tied it carefully in the corner of her 
handkerchief. 

"You must not cry, mademoiselle, or you will ruin 
your complexion. You ought to be as gay as a lark, now 
that you are free again. 

"What would you have?’’ answered Lydie, dashing 
away her tears. " He is gone ; I shall never see him 
again, and yet I shall never love any other man as I have 
loved him!” 

By this time Boris had reached his seat, having strug- 
gled through the American car, which is always placed on 
the train between Moscow and St. Petersburg, and with 
his head buried in his hands he was thinking of all that 
he was leaving : his mother, his home, his youth, Lydie 
and his love. It seemed to him vaguely, that he had set 
himself adrift and apart from all these, and at this idea 
his heart contracted as with physical pain. 


180 


SONIA, 


CHAPTER XIX. 


LETTEES! AND NO LETTEES! 

HE first few months were simply terrible for Boris. 



-J- He was home-sick in St. Petersburg ; he longed with 
a passionate longing not only for his home but for the dear 
ones whom he had left. 

His mother’s letters were weekly, while Lydie’s, which 
were much rarer, were also much shorter. These letters 
had the effect of increasing his longing for home and home 
scenes. 

His work was nevertheless very attractive and his 
patron was the best of men, but the young man was for 
the time being totally beyond the reach of reason and 
common sense. 

When the day of their departure for foreign lands was 
definitively fixed, Boris experienced a new pang. Was it 
not quite enough for fate to compel him to live apart from 
his mistress without increasing the distance to this fright- 
ful degree ? And yet what could he do ? Lydie had advised 
him to take the position ; his mother had consented, and — 
Here an idea occurred to him : if he should ask for three 
days’ leave he could rush home and kiss his mother and 
see Lydie for a moment. He would write and ask her, 
and almost instantly he despatched a letter, and by return 
mail received the following ; 


SONIA. 


181 


Dear Boris : — Do not come ! We leave to-morrow 
to visit one of my aunts who is very ill. I do not know 
how long we shall be away — all summer possibly ; and it 
is equally possible that it may be only for a few days. 
We shall not take Dounia with us ; she has found another 
place. I do not know at present what arrangement I can 
make in regard to your letters. Write me, however, to 

the post-office at , ^ to be kept till called for.^ I 

shall find some way of getting your letters when I return. 
Send me your address, so that I may be able to write to 
you. Do not forget me. Your faithful 

Lydie.” 

Boris was not altogether content with this letter — and 
yet what could he ask more ? He knew very well that 
Mademoiselle Gor^line was by no means mistress of her 
actions, and she had promised to write to him — and yet 
the young man’s heart ached, as he thought that she might 
be for two or three months without any intelligence of him. 
^^She will not be troubled much by that, I fancy,” he 
muttered to himself, with a bitter smile. 

As they left St. Petersburg, a letter from his mother 
was handed to him. 

I send you my blessing,” wrote the poor mother, on 
paper blurred and spotted with tears. May God watch 
over you in your journeying, my beloved son, and bring 
you home to me in health and strength. Prayers are 
nightly said for you under my roof; and the other evening 
Sonia burst into such a passion of tears, that we made her 
drink a glass of water before she was calmer. She wishes 


182 


SONIA. 


me to tell you that she has fought and quarrelled with no 
one since your departure — ‘not even with the dog/ she 
adds. She is here at my side watching me as I write. 
We often talk of you, we two; and we will try to have 
patience. Be happy, my son, and think every morning 
when you open your eyes, that your mother is praying for 
you ! 

Boris departed; and the months slipped away. Vainly 
did he look for a letter from Lydie. “ Nothing,’’ he said 
to himself, “was easier than to drop a letter into the box.” 
And he had taken pains to tell her to add to the address of 
all the letters she wrote him, “ to be called for.” But this 
did not seem to have influenced the actions of his betrothed. 
He wrote once each week. His letters were filled with 
reproaches, tenderness and hopes ; but the letters remained 
unanswered. He was in slow torture, and believed that 
Lydie was sick or dying — dead perhaps. He never 
thought of her being untrue to him. At the end of the 
fourth mouth, he received the long expected letter; and 
hurried to his room to read it undisturbed. Lydie wrote : 

“Dear Boris: — Dounia came to see me immediately 
on my return from the country ; I implored her so vehe- 
mently to go for my letters, that she finally consented. 
She desires to return to us, as the place she now has does 
not please; consequently she did not dare refuse my 
request. I have read all you have written, dear Boris, and 
I thank you for thinking so much of me. But you must 
not write so often. The clerk who gave Dounia the 
package laughed, and said to her : ‘ The young man who 
is courting your mistress doesn’t lose any time.’ 


SONIA. 


183 


It is only a clerk, to be sure, who said this, but it is 
disagreeable all the same; and I am horribly afraid that 
in some way my mother may hear of it. If you write 
once a month it will be as often as you ought. I do not 
know, however, how I can procure even that one letter, 
for my mother will not take Dounia back ; she says that 
^ the woman is excessively coarse’ — consequently I shall 
have no one on whom I can rely. Adieu ! dear Boris ; 
I will write as often as I can. Love me always, and 
think of— Lydie.” 

Boris threw himself into an arm-chair; tears of utter 
discouragement filled his eyes. After a silence of four 
months, and a separation of ten, this was all she could find 
to say to him. In a furious state of excitement he paced 
up and down the room, but by degrees his auger abated. 
Lydie, to be sure, was by no means eloquent. She had 
never had much to say during their interviews. Her 
frivolous education had not taught her the art of clothing 
her thoughts in words. She assured Boris of her tender- 
ness — what more was necessary ? 

Boris went at once to his desk and wrote a letter of 
gratitude, accompanied by protestations of fidelity. This 
letter was mailed, and six months elapsed without a reply. 

He begged and implored Lydie to send him a line; he 
even threatened her with an appeal to her father ; then he 
softened, and returned to entreaties once more ; but all 
to no purpose. In a state of utter exasperation, he at last 
put a definite question : 

Do you love me ? ” he wrote, or do you not ? If 


184 


SONIA. 


our engagement is irksome to you — if some other person 
has stolen your heart from me — at least tell me so frankly. 

I love you enough to relinquish you. But so long as you 
refrain from saying in just so many words that you will 
have nothing more to do with me, just so long will I regard 
you as my fiancee, and feel that I have a right to pursue 
you with my letters.’^ 

When Lydie received this ultimatum, she had just been 
mortified by a checkmate she had received in a quarter 
where it was least expected. An officer of the Guard, 
after having lavished the most marked attentions upon 
her for six weeks, suddenly departed to join his regiment, 
leaving only a series of vague and insufficient excuses as 
an adieu for Lydie. 

Almost at the same time a journal at Moscow published 
a note from the Savant with whom Boris was associated. 
This note heralded the discovery of some documents of the 
greatest importance. ^^A discovery due,’^ he said, ^‘in a 
very great degree, to the researches of a young man, of 
very great talent. Monsieur Grebof, who, if he goes on as 
he has begun, will before long make a name for himself 
in the scientific world.” 

Lydie was tired of Boris; but she wished to keep him ' 
on her line, lest some bigger fish should be unattainable. 
She therefore read his letter over and over again, and 
finally had a marvellous inspiration. 

“ When a woman loves,” she wrote, she does not con- 
sider it necessary to say so over and over again. Your 
suspicions are cruel, and wound me horribly. If you 
have any confidence in me, you will be willing to wait lor 


SONIA. 


185 


me without disturbing me with doubts and fears. I shall 
write no more : it is too dangerous. We will see when 
you return if it is I who has been faithless.” 

Boris replied by a torrent of oaths and reproaches, 
which filled sixteen pages or more, but Lydie was firm 
and made no answer. 

By this skilful manoeuvre she still bound Boris, but 
had liberated herself — in a somewhat Jesuitical fashion, 
it must be admitted ; but as the proverb says, to make an 
omelette, one must break eggs. 

Boris suffered acutely; he never thought of his past 
happiness without a pang; he was angry with himself, 
and angry with Lydie. The Savant saw the young mau^s 
unhappiness, and one evening laid his hand on his 
shoulder, with these words : 

My young friend, you are not seeking peace where 
only it is to be found. I know not the cause of your 
sufferings, but that they exist is clear to me. Accustom 
yourself to the inevitable and irretrievable, and find in 
study, higher and purer consolation than in simple daily 
distractions.” 

Boris profited by this advice, and by degrees his sorrow 
slept. If she has deceived me,” he said, “ I will be true 
to her — I will wait until I can see her face to face ; and if 
she has been true to me — ” 

At the thought of this possible joy his heart swelled ; 
but he rarely allowed himself to dwell on this idea, but 
devoted his life to austere toil. 

The blind faith of our hero may seem strange to our 
French readers, but it must be remembered that Eussia 


186 


SONIA. 


lies very near Germany and Sweden, and that these two 
countries divide with England the reputation of fidelity 
and long suffering. It is by no means rare in these lands 
for engagements of eight and ten years to exist between 
young people. French people — whom Eussians call 
frivolous — laugh at this, and Boris, you understand, was 
neither better nor more foolish than many others around 
him. Besides, he had given himself up to study; and 
study is a jealous mistress. 

In the society of the kind, good man with whom he 
resided, while deciphering those long manuscripts night 
after night, he learned to place their real value on the 
pleasures gained from long and persistent work. He 
visited all the places that had any scientific interest, and 
became familiar with the most secluded corners of the 
libraries, and acquired an immense amount of materials 
for future use, and got his mind into excellent working 
order. 

His mother’s letters, always calm and resigned, con- 
veyed to him without his knowledge the highest moral 
lessons. This woman, who had always lived for him, 
wliose sole dream of happiness had been for years that she 
should grow old at his side, was now alone — afar off — and 
with failing health ; she was gathering together, by dint 
of incessant self-sacrifice, a little money for the return of 
her dear child ; she occupied her sad leisure in super- 
intending the weaving of linen for his future home; and 
never one complaint nor one regret could be perceived in 
the serene melancholy of her long letters. Duty sent Boris 
away from her. He would become a noble, useful man. 


SONIA. 


187 


In this thought she found tranquillity — her generous heart 
accepted the separation as best for her boy, and she knew 
no other law. 

One Christmas eve — it was two years since Boris had 
left her — Madame Grebof felt very lonely. The snow 
that year had fallen so abundantly that the little house 
was half buried. Outside all was calm and quiet. The 
widow went to the window, and lifting the curtain looked 
out. Her thoughts flew far beyond the low sky, which 
looked almost black against the wide-spreading sheet of 
snow. She thought of her son. 

^^With whom,’’ she said, ^Hs he to-night? At whose 
side is he spending his Christmas eve — is it with a man or 
a woman ? He is just of the age to fall in love. What 
woman will he marry? Will she be beautiful? Will she 
be good?” 

And thinking of her future daughter-in-law, Madame 
Grebof dropped the curtain and sighed. Another sigh 
echoed hers; she turned and saw Sonia, who, wearing 
new shoea in honor of the season, came in softly with the 
samovar. 

The copper boiler shone like the sun, through the clouds 
of steam which came up from the apertures in the top. 
Madame Gr^bof’s cup was on the tray standing opposite 
the cream jug ; rolls of a golden brown were temptingly 
displayed in a basket upon a white napkin. 

How prettily you have arranged everything ! ” said 
Madame Gr6bof, kindly. 

Sonia’s eyes sparkled with pleasure. The mother 
thought of her son and his solitary repast, and sighed 
deeply. 


188 


SONIA. 


“ Yes, mistress, answered Sonia, replying to the secret 
thoughts of her benefactress. If we only knew that the 
master was well served, it would be a great comfort.^^ 

Astonished at the accuracy of the girPs perceptions, 
Madame Grdbof smiled kindly upon her. 

Who told you that I was thinking of my sou ? she 
said. 

^^Ah ! madame,^^ replied the child, are we not both of 
us always thinking of him? What should we think of — 
good heavens ! if not of the master ! ” 

Madame Grdbof poured out a cup of tea in silence. The 
words represented her own thoughts too nearly to require 
any response. Sonia, standing behind her, served her in 
silence, anticipating every wish. 

“As you love your master so much,^’ said the lady, in a 
few moments, “go get another cup, and take your tea 
with me.^^ 

Radiant with joy, Sonia ran for a cup, took the tea from 
Madame Grdbof, whose hand she kissed, and then seated 
herself on the edge of a chair. What an honor ! to take 
tea with her mistress. For the hundredth time the old 
lady made Sonia tell the tale of how she was snatched 
from the barbarous hands of Madame Gordline ; and more 
than one tear fell from the eyes of both as they expatiated 
on the virtues of the absent one. 

The term for which Boris had made his engagement 
had elapsed, but neither he nor his employer thought of 
making any change. Keen as was the desire of the young 
man to return to his native country, he realized that it 
would be the height of folly to precipitate matters ; and 


SONIA. 


189 


that he must profit to the fullest possible extent from the 
wonderfully favorable position in which he now found 
himself for the prosecution of his literary labors, and the 
cultivation of his literary tastes. 

Three years glided away, when their researches came to 
an end ; they returned to St. Petersburg, but the labors 
of Boris were by no means over. Now came the task of 
comparing the results recently obtained with the docu- 
ments already completed ; and neither of the two could 
work without the other. 

They had been but two days in Bussia when Boris 
received a letter from the priest of his village. 

Your mother is very ill,^^ he wrote; ^^for some days, 
she has been unable to leave her bed. If you can do so, 
I advise you to come at once.^^ 

At the reception of this intelligence, Boris hurried to 
the savant’s room ; he was out. But as be was friend 
rather than employer, Boris gave himself no anxiety, but 
laid the letter open on the desk, and went to pack his trunk. 

Some few hours after, the savant entered the young 
man’s chamber. 

You are going,” he said. ^^That is well. I came to 
say that you were entirely at liberty. If you wish to re- 
turn to me, I shall be only too happy, for your companion- 
ship has become very precious to me ; and this house will 
be dreary without you. Should you prefer to remain in 
Moscow, and to reside there independently, I shall take it 
upon myself to find for you an honorable position, and 
such an one as will permit you to continue our beloved 
studies. 


190 


SONIA. 


^^And, finally, if you wish for anything w^herein I can 
aid you, tell me so now and always ; and anything I can 
do I shall look upon as done merely in part discharge of 
my great debt to you.” 

Boris pressed the hand of this real friend in silence. 
Then he wrote a hasty note to Armianof ; and that same 
night left for Gribova. 

How little like the same journey of three years previous ! 
Now he was also sad and anxious ; but his anxiety was of 
a very different nature. His future was assured. The 
path before him was straightforward and honorable; he 
was free to live as he pleased ; but he thought little of 
Lydie. He was absorbed by his mother, by the remem- 
brance of her love for him, of her suffering, caused perhaps 
by his long absence. Moscow first, then a series of post- 
stations. The towering monasteries — seen as if in a dream 
—so quickly did the small, sturdy horses bear him on, 
through a cold, fine rain. It was autumn ; the sad 
autumnal season of Russia, with its dreary fogs and sun- 
less days. Yellowing leaves fell from the trees along the 
road, and the monotonous groups of fir-trees stood erect, 
spectre-like, seen through the mist. 

At last ! The beloved home of his childhood stood 
before him. The garden was blackened by frost. The 
dahlias drooped their heads with a mournful, desolate 
look; their long petals curling close against their dull, 
green stalks. 

Some one was waiting for him at the summer-house. 
An expectant ear had heard the distant sound of his bells ; 
and the slender figure of a child with garments fluttering 
in the wind was defined against the sombre sky. 


SONIA. 


191 


It was Sonia, who ran to meet him, and saluted him 
with a ^^Good-evening, master!’’ as she kissed his hand, 
with eyes shining with happiness. For a moment, she had 
forgotten that her friend and benefactress lay without 
strength, and almost without breath, in a neighboring 
room. She has forgotten that the son was to hear the 
saddest intelligence of his mother. 

Had he not come, the master, bringing back the sunlight 
and joy that had disappeared with him that snowy day so 
long ago 1 

How is my mother ? ” asked Boris, of the servants 
who crowded around him. 

She is living, master, thanl^s be to God ! ” answered 
the old cook, joyously, as she took his drenched cloak 
from his shoulders. 

She was living. He was not too late, then ! He hur- 
ried into the house ; but, with his hand on her door, he 
hesitated. Whom was he about to see? His dearly- 
beloved motlier, or a faint worn shadow of what she had 
formerly been ? 

Come in,” whispered the nurse. Madame knows 
that you have come ; she has been talking of you all 
night.” 

Boris crossed the threshold ; it was no shadow who 
greeted him. It was the pretty mother, whose every 
feature was dear to him. She extended her burning hands, 
and her voice, broken by sobs of joy, called him by his 
name. 

Boris, my son ! At last you have come ! ” 

He fell on his knees, and buried his face in the hands 


192 


SONIA. 


of this weeping mother, who turned her grateful eyes on 
the Virgin who looked serenely down from her shrine 
above their heads. The servants assembled in the door- 
way dried their eyes and made the sign of the cross. 

Mother ! ’’ said Boris, as soon as he could speak, “ why 
did you conceal your illness from me?^’ 

did not conceal it, my son,’^ answered Madame 
Gr^bof, passing her hand over her son’s hair ; it seems 
now that I have been ill some time ; but I did not know 
it. But you are here, I shall be well again, as you will 
see. This very day I intend to leave my bed ; and we 
will dine together at this little table, just as we did when 
you were a boy and were recovering from scarlatina. How 
long will you stay ? ” 

^‘As long as you wish, sweet mother.” 

She did indeed rise, and seemed to be very much better. 
Boris, with his broad shoulders, superb blond beard and 
manly stride, w'as a perpetual wonder and joy to her. 

^^You tell me that you, have no anxiety in regard to 
your future — that it is well assured?” she repeated from 
time to time. 

And at the satisfactory reply of her son, she clasped her 
hands in triumph and thanksgiving. 

Come and kiss me,” she said, tenderly. 

And each day she grew stronger. In the old house by 
the river there was one other heart as light as her own, 
and that was Sonia’s. 

The wild child, with her half-savage, half-gypsy nature, 
had subsided into a grave, quiet young girl, with a steady 
manner, saying little, laughing less, and doing a host of 


SONIA . 


193 


things with Une:xampled dexterity. She had not grown 
beautiful. Quite the contrary ; her bones were too promi- 
nent. She had grown, too — not to any very great degree, 
but she seemed to have been elongated, stretched as it 
were, so that she looked taller than she really was. 

She did not look like a woman ; and yet she was 
womanly. At first sight it was difficult to fix her age : 
she might be twelve or fourteen. Her mouth was dainty; 
her teeth were superb, when her rare smile permitted 
them to be seen ; and her gray eyes, fringed with brown 
lashes, were full of tender gratitude when they fixed them- 
selves on either her mistress or young son. 

She was indeed happy. Her master was there, and 
made no allusion to going away. Old Dacha, devoting her- 
self exclusively to her aged mistress, allowed the girl to do 
as she pleased in her master’s room; while he openly 
expressed his preference for the linen she ironed for him. 
What more could she ask ? 

One evening Madame Gr6bof complained of great 
fatigue arid went early to bed ; Boris, after having read to 
her a while, relapsed into silence and watched Sonia, who 
had taken Dacha’s place, she being also indisposed. The 
young girl moved as noiselessly as a shadow about the 
room. When she completed her arrangements and the 
door closed upon her, Madame Gr^bof said to her son : 

^^That girl is no ordinary creature. Have you her 
papers, and do you know all about her?” 

Yes, the G6n^ral sent me the papers, and I arranged 
everything three years ago, before I left home.” 

Do you understand, Boris, that that child has been the 
12 


194 


SONIA. 


greatest possible comfort to me? Every day we liave 
talked of you. She adores you, and I think that many a 
time she has prevented me from weeping by telling me 
how good you were to her. We must try to make her 
happy. She had more than her share of misery before she 
came to us.” 

Why should she not be happy?” asked her son, with 
a smile ; it seems to me that with you she has nothing to 
fear!” 

J^’o, not now ; but when I have gone to join your 
father — ” she was interrupted by a gesture from Boris. 
^^Ah 1 my son, you must think sometimes of the days when 
I shall be no more — for those cannot be very far off — then 
this child cannot remain here. What will you do with 
her? You must try and place her in some good family. 
If you should marry — ” she hesitated and looked at her 
son with questioning eyes, and as he did not answer, she 
continued, half sadly, ^^if you should marry, it would be 
all right — then you could take her into your service ; she 
would take the best of care of your children.” 

Boris was still silent. 

Have you no thought of marrying ?” asked his mother, 
tiiliidly. 

do not know; we will see 1” 

When you marry, Boris, choose a good woman, who 
has a generous heart and who loves you, for that is of the 
first importance. If I was happy with your dead father, 
it was because he was the best of men ; and you are very 
like him,” she added, thoughtfully. ‘‘May you be 
happy !” 


SONIA. 


195 


I shall certainly try to be ! ’’ said Boris, gayly. 

^^And do not forget this child ; she is a swallow whom 
God has sent to our chimney-corner to bring us happiness ; 
for it was with her that your prosperity came. We must 
not be guilty of ingratitude towards Providence ! 

Boris smiled as he kissed the caressing hand, laid so 
tenderly on his arm. 

Be at peace, mother, dear ! I will take care of your 
swallow,^^ he answered, cheerfully. But for many a long 
day to come she will be your charge ! 

Madame Gr^bof shook her head gently, and in a 
moment more fell asleep with her hand still on her son’s 
arm. For a week or more she had fallen asleep in this 
way at any hour. 

The next day, while rea‘ding to her from her favorite 
book, The Lives of the Saints,” Boris saw that his mother 
was asleep. He dropped his voice so that he should not 
awaken her, and then gradually ceased to read, and closing 
his book, looked at her calm, sweet face. 

It was the last day of the year. The rays of the setting 
sun flushed the banks of snow outside. A ray of sun- 
shine glanced in through the double sashes, and gilded the 
gold and silver images in their triangular shrine, and 
touching Madame Gr^bof’s pale face, seemed to invest it 
with something of its former youth and beauty. 

Boris watched his mother for a long time, and remem- 
bered the days when she had borne him in her arms, a stout 
and sturdy boy, to the slab which covered his father’s 
remains. Then he recalled the years of study in Moscow 
— then the separations and the holidays ; and finally, this 


196 


SONIA. 


last long and cruel absence from her — an absence which 
she had borne so courageously and uncomplainingly. 

Mother/’ he said, softly, touching his lips to the shawl 
which was thrown around the shoulders of the invalid, 
“ you have been a Providence to me ! How can I love you 
and cherish you enough ? ” This movement, cautious as 
it was, aroused her, and, as laying her harnd languidly on 
her son’s head he had fallen on his knees, 

You have been a good son, Boris,” she murmured, 
without opening her eyes; ^^you have never caused me 
any grief, and I thank you ! ” 

Her hand slipped from his head, and fell into the other, 
which lay half open across her breast. Boris kissed them 
both, and then wrapped the shawl over them, and resumed 
his seat in an arm-chair at the side of the bed. 

The rosy light had faded ; the cold blue sky filled by 
degrees with stars, whose light was as clear and keen as 
if they had been diamond nails. It seemed to Boris that 
the room was growing strangely cold. The frost crept 
over the window panes. He rose, lowered the shades, and 
drew the curtains noiselessly, and then went to the lamp 
that was burning before the shrine to liglit a candle. The 
flickering flame threw a faint light upon the bed and its 
draperies. Boris suddenly felt himself taken possession 
by a vague, unreasoning fear. He opened the door. 

Dacha ! ” he said, in a low voice. There was no reply. 
He closed the door behind him, went forward several steps, 
and called, Sonia!” She appeared instantly. Bring 
a lamp ; the candle burns badly. I can see nothing.” He 
returned to the room. His mother had not moved; on 


SONIA. 


197 


her face was a half smile, as if she had that moment 
spoken to him. Boris stooped over her, and said : 
“ Mother ! She did not move. He felt her hands, which 
were still wrapt in the shawl; they were damp and warm. 
But without knowing wherefore, he was frightened. 

Mother ! he repeated. Still she did not reply. Sonia 
brought in the lamp. Boris signed to her to approach. 
She placed it behind the couch ; but Madame Gr4bof did 
not open her eyes. Boris rushed to her side. Mother ! 
mother ! ” he cried, in a choked voice. She was dead ! 

He uttered a cry, and fell on his knees. 

“ Master ! said Sonia, standing erect behind him, she 
is a saint in heaven ! Do not trouble her repose — it would 
be a great sin in the eyes of the Lord!’’ 

Boris turned around with wide open, affrighted eyes. 
Large tears were slowly running down the child’s cheeks. 
Her face was very pale, but perfectly calm. Impressed 
by her appearance, the young man rose mechanically. 

Sonia moved the lamp to a table, and then going to the 
couch, took the dead woman’s hands in hers, and kissed 
them, not with the passionate fervor which was her usual 
manner, but with a kind of timid respect, which she would 
have shown to some Holy relic or revered Image. She 
dropped a tear on the hand that was evermore closed to 
melting charity, and turning toward Boris again, who stood 
in a dull torpor, looking at her, but seeing nothing. 

^^Pray, master; she is a saint in heaven. God will 
listen to your prayers. Ask him to send you consolation,” 
and Boris fell on his knees and wept. 


198 


SONIA. 


CHAPTEE XX, 


A HOUSE OF MOUENINO. 


obedience to the customs of the country, the body lay 



-L in state for three days in the large hall, oij trestles 
covered with white cloths. The floor was heaped with 
branches of evergreens, while from far-off villages came 
crowds of peasants, both men and women, anxious to behold 
for the last time the sweet face which had always greeted 
them with divine compassion, and to kiss once more the 
generous hand Avhich had relieved so much of their misery. 
For these three days, Boris guarded that form and features 
to which Death had imparted new dignity and solemn 
grace. Boris studied every feature, as if anxious to engrave 
on his memory every line in that beloved face. 

Sonia, too, rarely left the room. She hovered about in 
perpetual watchfulness, seeming desirous of keeping Boris 
in sight, lest he should yield to some temptation. 

But there was no daifger. The young man’s heart was 
crushed with grief ; but he was calm and resigned. The 
sweetness of the dead woman’s last moments had imparted 
something of their serenity to him. Thanks to her last 
words, he felt at peace with her and himself. 

Consequently, on the morning of the fourth day, the 
humble crowd, assembled from all the country roundabout 
to pay their last respects to their friend, were struck by the 
calm manner in which Boris headed the procession. The 


SONIA. 


199 


peasants claimed the privilege of bearing their benefactress 
to her grave ; and the crowd of small farmers, of humble 
functionaries, grouped themselves around the bier, which 
was still uu covered. 

A bright winter’s sunshine fell on the glittering snow. 
The path to the church-yard was strewn with odorous 
branches of spruce. The large gate was thrown open at 
the end of the garden. Boris cast one glance towards the 
summer house, where he should never again find his mother 
awaiting him ; then the procession wound along by the 
side of the pond, the church in the distance looking gray 
against the snow ; on the green cupola shone a modest 
gilt cross. 

The priest, in mourning garments, met them at the 
entrance, and his tears dropped on the cross he held in 
his hand. He was no longer young. And the dear old 
friend for whom he now mourned had wept with him over 
the graves of those children who had left him one after 
another. 

The cortege entered the church ; there was an hour or 
more of prayers and music; then the huge stone which 
covered the family tomb was lifted, and the mother ^vas 
buried where she had so often knelt in prayer. 

The interminable funeral repast was very silent; and 
the greatest respect was felt and manifested toward the 
grave young man who did the honors of this desolated 
home with so much dignity. 

The peasants gathered in the barn, did not one of them 
become intoxicated ; and in a few hours Boris was alone 
in the domain of which he was now sole proprietor. 


200 


SONIA. 


How enormous this little house seemed to him ! After 
some days devoted to putting his affairs in order, he sum- 
moned from far and near, all those persons who had in 
any way served his mother, rewarded them according to 
their merit, or according to the time they had been with 
her, and then announced his intention of leaving very soon. 

^^Are you going again into foreign countries, master ? ” 
asked old Dacha, who had become almost blind since the 
death of her mistress, so constant had been the tears she 
shed. 

Not at present. I shall remain in Moscow.^’ 

After an oppressive silence, the old woman said ; You 
must have some one to wait upon you — I had hoped that 
you would take my son, but he has turned out badly, and 
I cannot advise you to take him. There is Sonia how- 
ever ; take her ! ” 

The little girl listened in silence, turned very pale, and 
closed her eyes as if to gather strength ; then opening 
them, she darted a look of gratitude — a look which was 
warm enough to thaw a block of ice — upon old Dacha ; but 
the blind woman lost it. 

“Take Sonia,” resumed Dacha, “If you wish to have' 
some one on whom you can rely, she is the person. The 
child does really very well ; she is an accomplished laun- 
dress. And now, tell me, what could she do here? ” 

Sonia was still silent ; her nervous fingers were twisting 
and untwisting the corners of her apron, and she trembled 
from head to foot. 

“What do you think about it?” asked the young man, 
turning to the other women. 


SONIA. 


201 


“Take Sonia!’’ they all answered together, like an 
antique chorus ; “ she is very young ; we are old — all of 
us; and yet the son of our mistress ought to be well 
served by some one of this household.” 

' A faint smile played upon the lips of the young man, 
as he turned toward the orphan. 

“What have you to say, my child?” 

She stepped forward, and before any one realized what 
she meant to do, she prostrated herself three times at his 
feet, touching the earth with her forehead ; then straight- 
ening herself up, she answered, clearly and calmly; 

“ I wish to go.” 

“Then get yourself in readiness. We shall leave on 
Wednesday.” 

She left the room without another word, but her step 
was swift and light. 

The hour of departure came, and the peasants again 
assembled to say adieu to their master. He said a kind 
word to each, and took his seat in the sledge. Sonia 
glided in after him as- light as a bird. Every one wept, 
for this son of their old mistress recalled her vividly to 
their minds, compelling them to feel that on his departure 
he bore with him all that lingered of her in the old house 
by the river. But he! — what did he not leave behind 
him ? 

The sledge passed all the houses in the village, and 
when it reached the great gate Boris turned and looked 
back. The sky was blue and clear ; the peasants were 
disappearing one by one in their little huts by the road- 
side. The sledge glided smoothly over the snow, and 


202 


SONIA. 


reached the turn in the road, where three years before 
Sonia had awaited her master. She laid her hand timidly 
on his arm. 

Master,’’ she said, ^^do you remember? It was on 
this spot that you promised to take me away with you 
some day.” 

^^And I have kept my word,” answered Boris. ^^Are 
you content?” 

“Ah ! yes j ” and the child sighed a happy little sigh. 
“Do you remember how you took me from Madame 
Goreline’s?” 

Boris dropped his head and relapsed into thought. 
That name awoke a thousand recollections — where was 
Lydie? Was she expecting Him, or had she forgotten 
him ? 

“ Master, you are very good,” said a little flute-like 
voice at his side. It was Sonia’s, who was closely hooded 
and wrapped in furs, given to her by old Dacha. “ God 
will reward you, master!” 

And the sledge dashed on over the sparkling snow. 

On reaching Moscow, Boris at once installed himself in 
a small furnished apartment, where Sonia took up the 
reins of government with a most vigorous hand. Her 
master wished to order his meals from a neighboring 
restaurant, but this plan met with the most energetic 
opposition from her. Although by no means fastidious, 
Boris was a little doubtful of her ability, but he was sur- 
prised as well as pleased to find that Sonia was quite as 
skilful as the cook at Gribova. 

At the end of a week, the young man found that he had 


SONIA. 


203 


a home — not commonplace hotel-rooms — but a real home, 
where he was surrounded by familiar and beloved trifles 
— where he could find what he wanted, and where his 
shirts had buttons, and his hose were mended ; where the 
lamp was trimmed and burning when he came in, and 
where his tea was poured out for him, without his even 
being compelled to ask for it. 

One easily becomes accustomed to the comforts of life, 
and Boris was quite willing that his expenses should be 
greater in proportion to the increase of his comforts; but 
he found that he was in reality spending less money. 

How do you live ? he said to Sonia, one day. I 
never hear of your buying anything for yourself.’^ 

Oh ! I have enough of everything,’^ answered the girl, 
with a happy laugh, which showed her pretty white 
teeth. 

We have never said anything about your wages,” said 
the young man, with an absent air. 

Sonia laughed again ; so unusual a sound from her, that 
it sufficed to arouse Boris from his preoccupation. It was 
almost the first time that he had heard this childlike, rip- 
pling laughter from her. He echoed it. 

‘^How much do you want?” he asked, as the girl 
colored. 

Wages!” she exclaimed. ^^Are you talking about 
giving me wages? I never heard such a ridiculous idea, 
Boris Ivanovitch ! ” 

The idea is not ridiculous : it is only right and wise, 
my child I You need money, like the rest of the world.” 

I am rich,” she answered, proudly. I have all that 


204 


SONIA. 


money which G^n^ral Goreline gave me, you know, when 
we left there.^' 

‘^And in all this time have you not expended it ? ” 

How could I ? Did not your mother give me all I 
required ? ” 

Boris relapsed into thought ; and Sonia, seeing his pre- 
occupation, went about on tip-toe. 

The young man was in reality full of care. Since his 
return, he had ascertained that the Gor^lines were no 
longer in their old quarters; they had moved several 
times, and no one knew where they were now to be found. 

The directory afforded him no assistance ; he had hoped 
that Lydie would let him know where to find her. That 
she was not married, he knew ; that she was still beautiful, 
he had heard ; but no one could tell him that she still 
remembered him. 

In conformity with his voluntary promise, his friend, 
the savant, had written to Moscow, and Boris had received 
several most flattering propositions from the journals and 
scientific reviews. 

A lucrative position was offered to him in a library. 
Would all these advantages suffice, in case Lydie still 
cared for him, to induce Madame Gor^line to forget her 
ambitious projects? But if Lydie loved him, what 
mattered all the rest ? And the young man’s heart beat 
quickly, as in the days of yore. He had given three years 
of his life to work ; now he turned toward love. He was 
only twenty-five. Was it not natural? 

It was then Lydie who only could decide these ques- 
tions ; but to find her was by no means an easy thing. 


SONIA . 


205 


He soon learned, however, that every Saturday she went 
to the house of a most agreeable family; it was their 
reception evening. These people belonged to the in- 
tellectual circles of the city quite as much as to the 
fashionable ones. 

He sought the acquaintance of the lady of the house, 
but did not succeed immediately ; his deep mourning pre- 
vented his appearing where there was dancing; but toward 
Lent, Boris became acquainted with the head of the house. 

Professor B , who at once begged him to appear at his 

soirees. 

On the following Saturday, Sonia was astonished at the 
careful toilette made by her master. She had never seen 
him so fastidious. Without venturing on any observation, 
she quietly drew her own conclusions, which did not add 
to her cheerfulness ; but Boris heeded not her silence, nor 
evident depression. 

When she handed him his pelisse and fur cap, and had 
closed the door upon him, she stood silent and thoughtful 
in the anteroom. She looked at the door as if to ask the 
solution of a problem. The cold struck her ; she shivered, 
pressed her hands on her burning eyes, and went back to 
her master’s room. 

All was in disorder there. Slowly and noiselessly she 
gathered up article after article, folded the garments he 
had that day worn, and deposited them in orderly fashion 
upon a chair; then drawing from a dilapidated trunk, 
which she had appropriated, an old writing-book, she began 
to copy the alphabet with great industry ; but alas ! not 
without getting ink on her fingers. 


206 


SONIA. 

The task was laborious. She uttered great sighs occa- 
sionally, and when she compared what she had done with 
easy flowing lines on a page written by Boris, there was 
little resemblance between them. With another sigh she 
resumed her task. 

The cuckoo clock struck the hour ; the soft light of the 
lamp, and the heat of the room, were too much for the 
girl. The pen dropped from her fingers, and Sonia slept 
upon her copy-book. 


V 


SONIA. 


207 


CHAPTER XXI. 

IN THE WORLD. 

/^X entering the salon of Professor B , Gr4bof sat- 

isfied himself with one quick, comprehensive glance 
that Lydie was not there. He had gone early that he 
might have an opportunity to talk a little to the lady of 
the house. Visitors came in gradually, until, at nine 
o’clock, the rooms were full, and tea was served. Boris 
was in despair at the failure of his attempt, when a move- 
ment in a group around the doorway attracted his atten- 
tion. They separated, and Lydie appeared. 

She had grown at least an inch. A silk dress, of a gray 
so pale that it was almost white, fitted her superb bust 
most admirably. Scarlet knots of ribbon floated here and 
there on her sleeves and at her throat, and upon her mag- 
nificent hair. Her head was well set on her shoulders, 
and proudly bore the braids with which it was crowned. 

She entered with cold self-possession; sure of her 
beauty, and indifferent to homage. She passed Boris 
without seeing him, and went at once to the lady of the 
house. She stood talking, with a gracious smile upon her 
lips. Her silvery drapery fell behind her, making on the 
carpet a shining, rippling surface, like that of the moon on 
the water ; and when she seated herself a delicious rustle 
of silk was heard. She was made for velvet and silk. 

Her father, thinner and smaller than ever, followed her 


208 


♦ 

SONIA. 

closely, and came very near planting his feet on her train, 
which awkwardness elicited a most withering glance from 
his daughter. 

“ How beautiful she is ! thought Boris, with his heart 
in his eyes. ^‘She is lovelier than ever; but what a 
haughty manner she has adopted ! ” 

The young men gathered around Lydie; to one she 
vouchsafed a word ; to another a smile ; to a third a 
friendly glance and a nod ; and to many more the slightest 
possible inclination of the head. 

Haughty and indifferent she was, indeed; and would 
so have struck any indifferent observer. Boris asked 
himself, however, if it were not possible that this cold 
indifference arose from the fact that she had a life 
of her own, apart from this superficial, worldly exist- 
ence. “ May she not love me still he said, with a thrill 
of joy. 

His boyish happiness — his alternations of joy and sor- 
row — the intoxication of that first day by the spring — the 
pangs of parting ; in short, all the details of his passion for 
Lydie, rose before him. Again he saw Lydie seated on 
the turf, talking to him with girlish frankness, replying 
to his tenderness with a smile, which was so strangely 
different from that which now parted his lips. 

She does not choose to be to others what she has been 
to me,” he said to himself. I am very ungrateful ! ” 

At this moment, a new adorer came toward Lydie and 
took a seat at her side. He was a General : at least fifty 
years of age, wearing a crowd of decorations upon his 
breast ; his hair was scanty, but his expression was amia- 


SONIA. 


209 


ble, if a trifle conscious and patronizing. That he was 
unmarried was evident at the first glance. 

At his approach, the girl beamed on him. She drew 
the folds of her dress aside to make room for hiai; and 
smilingly gave him her hand in greeting. They talked 
in a confidential sort of way. And Boris, while he pre- 
tended to be absorbed in a profound literary discussion, 
never took his eyes from them. He could not hear a word 
they said, but he saw their faces. The G^n^ral was gal- 
lant, and Lydie was coquettish ; and her replies evidently 
flattered the self-love of this desirable parti to a very 
decided degree. 

‘^That is the way girls now-a-days fish for husbands,’’ 
said a lady, behind Grebof ; but they do not always 
succeed,” she added, maliciously. 

Boris turned round hastily. Was she speaking of 
Lydie? or had the chances of conversation allowed him to 
hear just this one phrase, which possibly referred to a 
person unknown to him ? But the lady was already 
far away from this topic, and the young man heard no 
more. 

After a half-hour or more of this conversation, which 
was very like a tete-a-tete, so completely apart were the 
pair from the groups around them, Lydie rose quietly and 
gracefully, and with a smile to her admirer, which was a 
veritable Parthian dart, she addressed a word or two to a 
group of young girls, and glided into the next room. 
After a moment’s reflection, the G4n6ral followed her, 
with a determined air. 

Grebof ’s expression was not the gayest in the world ; 

13 


210 


SONIA. 


as at that moment his hostess approached to make a few 
complimentary remarks. 

You noticed that beautiful girl, I suppose, who came 
in so late,^^ she said, after talking a few moments. She 
is the beauty of Moscow. The last time we gave a large 
ball, the Governor-General danced with her twice.” 

“ She is very beautiful,” answered Boris, with an effort. 

Shall I present you?” said the lady, eagerly. 

I shall be charmed ! ” 

He followed her to the next room, where Lydie had 
taken possession of a small sofa where there was only room 
for one at her side. The sofa stood- in an angle which was 
partially protected by a screen covered with ivy. She 
was alone for the moment, and turning over the leaves of 
an album. The G4n4ral, twisting his moustache with an 
air of triumph, stood at some little distance, watching her. 
His manner indicated that he felt himself to have attained 

a victory. Madame B approached the girl. Boris 

was a step or two in the rear. 

My dear Lydie, permit me to present you a young 
man of celebrity,” said the hostess ; Monsieur Grebof — 
just returned to his native country, from — ” The lady 
was interrupted. 

“ Excuse me ! ” she said, hurrying away and leaving 
them together. 

Lydie, in utter bewilderment, was gazing at him with 
widely opened eyes. 

Had she forgotten his existence? Almost — or at all 
events had arrived at the conclusion that she should never 
see him again. And he was there, looking into her very 


SONIA. 


211 


eyes, irreproachably dressed in evening costume, holding 
his hat in his hand ; having, in short, all the air of a man 
of society. His face was very pale,* however, and was 
neither calm nor smiling. 

The girl regained her self-possession almost imme- 
diately; and glancing quickly around, to assure herself that 
no one was paying any attention to them, she quietly said : 

Take this seat — ” 

Boris sank into the chair she indicated ; his limbs 
refused to sustain him longer. 

Lydie,^’ he murmured, “ after three years, to meet 
you thus — and I have lost my mother ! 

Be careful ! ” she said. People are looking at us.” 

Boris made a violent eiffort at self-control ; and with a 
more careless manner, and without looking at her, he said : 

You remember me?” 

Most assuredly ! ” 

Notwithstanding her apparent calmness, he detected a 
trembling in her voice. In fact, the ghost of her youth 
was passing before her. 

Lydie, for three months I have been in search of you.” 

You are living in Moscow?” 

‘^Yes.” 

^^And where?” 

Boris looked at her in astonishment. She waited for 
his reply with evident impatience. He named the street 
and the number. 

Very well. Now what have you to say to me ? ” 
say simply that for three years I have never ceased 
to think of you ; that in this time, my mother has been 


212 


SONIA. 


taken from me ; that I am utterly alone in the world ; and 
that, if I am not wealthy, I have at least a promising 
future before me. 'Lydie, look at me.’^ 

She turned her face towards him and against her will ; 
her expression was that of tender sweetness. She dropped 
her eyelids, and her face was covered with blushes. 

“ We will discuss ail that at length on another occasion,” 
she said ; at present we are the objects of curious 
observation.” 

“ When may I see you ? ” 

^^Very soon.” 

Lydie, I cannot wait ! ” 

He had drawn his chair nearer to hers, and the conquering 
hero, the General, cast moody glances upon the young man. 

^^How are you served?” she asked, in a quick, low 
voice. 

By Sonia — you remember Sonia, the little girl I took 
away with me?” 

By this time he was leaning over her. 

'^Expect me, then, to-morrow, at eleven o’clock,” she 
whispered, in a low, clear voice ; and then she added aloud, 
^^and patience is the greatest possible virtue !” 

They separated almost immediately. Boris was by no 
means an adept at dissimulation, and he could not speak 
to any one for some little time. He was almost terrified 
at the power Lydia had over herself, and at the calm way 
in which she uttered the word “to-morrow.” He was 
dizzy with excitement and suspense. The word “to- 
morrow ” rang in his ears. 

The evening was not sufficiently advanced for him to 
retire without exciting remark. 


SONIA. 


213 


He approached a group of distinguished men, with 
whom his host was holding an animated discussion. The 
voice of the principal speaker was often drowned by shouts 
of laughter and exclamations of dissent or approval. 

I am right I said a voice, suddenly ; and at this voice 
Boris beheld again in his mind’s eye G6n6ral Goreline’s 
pipes arranged along the wall — those very pipes which 
were so carefully gathered together every morning by 
Sonia, and which every evening were again scattered like 
the tribes of Israel. 

Monsieur Gr^bof!” cried Gor^line, suddenly seeing 
the young man ; and hurrying toward him, he greeted him 
warmly. This is a most unlooked-for pleasure ! How 
are you? — and what has become of Sonia?” 

The G^n^ral’s red freckled hand seized that of Boris, 
who did his best to reply to the questions which the good 
man rained upon him. Then the turn of Boris came. 

My wife has been very ill for more than six months,” 
said the General, with a most radiant expression, and 
I am compelled to take her place, and go out with my 
daughter.” 

“And cannot Madame Gor4line go out at all?” asked 
Boris, who had his own little motives for the question. 

“ No, indeed ! ” was the G^n^ral’s joyous answer ; “ she 
has chronic rheumatism settled in her knee, and she cannot 
leave her room. I do all the visiting at present.” 

He rubbed his hands assiduously, which, with him, was 
always an indication of pleasure. Then suddenly he 
seemed to recollect what was expected of him ; his whole 
manner changed ; he shook his head sadly. 


214 


SONIA. 


It is very sad, Boris Ivanovitch, very sad ! ” 

Indeed it is/^ answered the young man, trying to be 
serious — ^^particularly for Madame Gor4line.” 

To be sure, particularly for her,’’ repeated her hus- 
band, indifferently ; ^^and you say that Sonia is well ?” 

Yes — perfectly well ; she devoted herself to my mother 
during the last years of her life, and since — since then she 
has resided with me.” 

In Moscow?” 

“You live here, then? — permanently?” 

“Ah ! that I cannot tell.” 

“I shall come and see Sonia one of these days. I 
always loved her ; she was a good child. You have no 
objection, I presume?” 

“ I shall be only too happy to see you in my house,” 
answered Boris, bowing courteously. 

The G^n^ral wrote down the young man’s address. 

“You understand that I cannot now say when I shall 
call upon you ?” resumed the G6n^ral. “ I am very busy 
now ; all the cares of the house devolve upon me, and it is 
a tremendous responsibility, sir, perfectly tremendous,” he 
added, with a profound sigh : “ everything now-a-days is 
so very expensive ! But you will be here all winter ? ” 

“ Most certainly.” 

“ Very well, then ; I shall see you again very soon, per- 
haps almost immediately. You remember that I was very 
fond of you; I am not in the least like my wife, you 
know*. I hear you have reached a most distinguished, 
position ? ” 

After another fifteen minutes of desultory chat, Boris 


SONIA. 


215 


took his departure. As he entered his own rooms, his 
mind seemed to be in a state of absolute confusion. The 
visit promised by the G^n^ral disturbed him considerably. 

Suppose he should come to-morrow ! he thought. “ I 
ought to have told him that I had an engagement for the 
whole day. Pshaw ! he will not be in such extreme haste 
to call upon a poor devil like myself.” 

He ceased to think of General Gordline, and dwelt on 
Lydie. The girl had developed into a wonderfully 
beautiful woman, although her face had lost the dimples 
and rounded contour of sixteen. Her voice had harsh, 
metallic notes — and was he pleased or satisfied with what 
she had said ? Had he not looked for a very different 
reception ? His heart was as strangely moved as when he 
formerly met the girl at the spring ; but she — After all, 
though, was he not provincial, accustomed to the society 
only of his books and manuscripts, while Lydie was a 
real woman of the world, habituated to self-control — both 
words and looks closely guarded. But this stout G4n6ral, 
with his dandified airs ? She was a coquette — ^alas ! had 
she not always been one? 

Boris was overwhelmed with a feeling of intense sadness. 

To-morrow, however, I shall know all,” he said to him- 
self ; but he had none of the joyous hopes which would 
have been natural after a separation of three years and 
more. 

To-morrow” seemed to him more like a funeral knell 
than a fdte day. As he ascended his stairs, he stopped 
under the light and drew out his watch. 

Half-past twelve ! ” he said. In twelve hours, then. 


216 


SONIA. 


I shall have learned the whole — all will be decided. 
Until then, I will not allow myself to dwell upon it.’’ 

He opened the door of his rooms with a key which he 
carried in his pocket. The lamp burned before the image 
in the corner. Sonia slept so soundly that his entrance 
did not disturb her. 

Her head was resting on her arras, which were folded 
across her open copy-book. The soft light of the lamp 
fell on the round but somewhat too pronounced contour 
of the girFs infantine face. Her regular breathing just 
parted her lips ; her face, even in sleep, had a sad, severe 
expression ; she was still dreaming perhaps of the rebel- 
lious letters which refused to be formed under her awk- 
ward fingers. 

Curious to see the occasion of this profound sleep, Boris 
approached noiselessly and bent over her. Sonia was on 
her feet instantly, trembling like a bird startled upon 
her nest. 

Excuse me, Boris Ivanovitch ! she stammered, as she 
rubbed her eyes with her slender hand. I did not hear 
you come in.^^ 

The young man had quietly taken up the copy-book, 
and was looking at it in astonishment. 

“ What ! Is it possible that you are learning to read 
write without any assistance from any one ? 

am not learning, master; I was merely trying,’^ 
answered Sonia, looking much frightened. ^^If you forbid 
it, I will not do so any more.’^ 

^^If I forbid it! Do you take me for an imbecile 
answered Boris, half laughing, half angry. Why did 


SONIA. 


217 


you not tell me that you were anxious to learn ? I would 
have taught you — you have had a hard struggle, ray child, 
with your scrawls ! 

He examined the copy-book as he spoke. The little 
girl saw that he was not ridiculing her in spite of his 
laughing tone, and she soon regained her confidence. 

^^And will you really teach me, master she said, in a 
voice so gentle, feminine and coaxing, that Boris was 
touched to the heart. 

Certainly I will ; but I beg of you now to go to bed 
— you should have been asleep two or three hours since.’’ 

Oh ! I have slept very well,” she answered, with a 
fresh, girlish laugh. 

But I have not,” said Boris, gravely; '^so now be off 
with you, instantly.” 

^^Do you want nothing?” 

'N.o, thanks ; good-night.” 

Good-night, master ! ” 

Sonia went off with a light heart. She was half-way to 
the door when she turned hastily and rushed to Boris, who 
was at that moment removing his pelisse. As he threw it 
on a chair she fell on her knees, and burying her face in 
the heavy fur, which she covered with kisses, she said, 
with a gay laugh : 

What a kind, good master you are, Boris Ivanovitch. 
May God reward you ! ” 

Then seizing in both arms the heavy pelisse, which was 
larger than her whole delicate form, she noiselessly dis- 
appeared. 

Boris laughed — and in his laugh was a touch of tender- 
ness. 


218 


SONIA. 


Since he had lost his mother, he had become more and 
more attached to the orphan. He found in her something 
of the dear one who had gone to realms of bliss ! Sonia 
had unconsciously acquired from her benefactress certain 
gestures and movements ; and even an occasional tone in 
her voice brought Madame Gr^bof back to her son^s 
recollection. At all events, this was the reason that he 
gave to himself, for the deep affection he cherished for 
the girl. 

He took the chair by the table which Sonia had just 
vacated. The image of Lydie in her silvery dress, with 
the flame-colored ribbons, her laughing eyes and haughty 
head, bewitched and haunted him. 

‘‘ I will not think of you,” he murmured, as he dipped 
his pen in his ink, drew his papers toward him, and 
resumed the work which he did not leave until the gray 
light of morning peeped through the windows. 


SONIA. 


219 


CHAPTER XXII. 

A HAZARDOUS INTERVIEW. 

T he next day Grdbof came to the conclusion that it 
were wiser — before the hour came when he might 
expect Lydie — to send Sonia to execute some distant com- 
mission. The clock was on the point of striking — he had 
taken his tea, and was about putting this idea into execu- 
tion when a loud pull at the bell startled him. Before he 
had time for reflection, Sonia had opened the door, and a 
masculine voice resounded through the anteroom. 

Goreline ! said Boris, aghast. Who on earth would 
have expected him — this morning of all others! What 
shall I do, now, to get rid of him?” 

At the same moment the G^n^ral appeared, with the 
radiant Sonia literally at his heels. 

^^Ah ! ha, young man ! you did not expect me quite so 
soon, I fancy ! ” he cried, as he shook hands with Boris. 

I supposed — ” stammered his host. 

W^ell ! you see, I was going out this morning to early 
mass and then to market, for we are to have people to 
dinner — G§n6ral Troubine — a great admirer of my 
daughter’s — ” 

Here Goreline assumed a wise, important air, which 
speedily gave place to the most piteous expression, while 
he added : 

^‘It is a most serious thing to go to market, I do 


220 


SONIA. 


assure you, Boris Ivanovitch — prices are so liigh, and my 
wife — 

He stopped, and seemed to be making a mental calcula- 
tion of how much the dinner would cost. The result was 
more favorable apparently than he had ventured to hope 
for. He added, more cheerfully : 

‘‘So I said to myself I won’t go to church, after all! 
I will go and see Boris Ivanovitch, and little Sonia. 
Well, ray child, does it please you to see the old G6n6ral?” 

And he placed his hand on the girl’s head just as he 
formerly did, when standing on the terrace at their country 
home the child had appeared, laden with his pipes. This 
familiar gesture awakened a thousand recollections in the 
mind of Boris — would not Lydie come in, wearing her 
simple lilac morning dress as of yore ? 

“And you have but a moment to spend with us then. 
General?” he said, determining to go out himself if there 
was no other way of getting rid of his guest. 

“ Only a moment ; but I have time to take a glass of 
tea, if you should offer it to me,” answered the worthy 
man, seating himself comfortably in an arm-chair. 

“Certainly,” answered the young man. “I have a 
matter of business to attend to this morning, but I am in 
no hurry.” 

“Oh, do not trouble yourself on my account,” answered 
General Gor4line, most amiably. “ Go out as soon as you 
please. Sonia will take care of me.” 

This plan was by no means satisfactory to Boris, who 
hastened to offer his inconvenient guest tea as cold as 
possible, that there might be no delay in swallowing it. 


SONIA. 


221 


The cuckoo struck half-past ten. Boris was in an 
agony. He could hardly remove his eyes from the face 
of his watch, which lay open on the table. 

The G^n^ral asked him a thousand questions, and finally 
the young man made up his mind, when it wanted a 
quarter to eleven, to take his pelisse from the anteroom and 
wait for Lydie on the sidewalk, and prevent her coming in. 

Gor^line, having at last swallowed his tea, remembered 
the fact that the market was some distance otF. He slowly 
rose, and Boris accompanied him to the anteroom, his 
heart beating quickly, and all the blood in his body seemed 
to be thumping in his ears as he watched the G4n6ral 
putting on his pelisse and galoshes. Just as the old man 
was about leaving, a new idea seemed to strike him. 

Will you let Sonia go with me to market?” he said. 

She can carry the basket home for me. No one knows 
her, you see, at my house now.” 

Most certainly,” answered Boris, eagerly. Sonia, 
put on your coat quickly. Do not keep the General 
waiting. Make haste, child ! ” 

The cuckoo struck eleven just as the child, wrapped up 
to her chin, reappeared in the anteroom. 

“Au re voir. General,” said the young man, with feverish 
haste. Come soon again to see us. You will excuse me, 
under the circumstances, from returning your visit?” 

Eh ! yes,” shouted the General from the foot of the 
stairs. You may rely on seeing me again shortly.” 

All was silent. Boris left open one of the doors, that he 
might hear the least sound of the bell, and then waited in 
the small salon. 


222 


SONIA. 


The suspense of the hour that had just elapsed had so 
tortured his nerves that he could not bear with composure 
the moments of waiting still before him. He exerted all 
his self-control however, and tried to read. 

Half-past eleven ! The clear notes of the cuckoo rang 
through the silent room. All the senses of the young man 
were on the qui vive; he thought he heard the rustling 
of Lydie’s silk skirts on the staircase. Deep snow muffled 
the sound of the carriages in the street, and the very 
sleighs seemed to glide silently past, so well padded were 
the sashes to keep out the wintry winds. This profound 
stillness so affected the young man’s nerves that for a 
moment he had the idea that he was dead, and that they 
had forgotten to bury him. He hastily rose from his 
chair and went to the window, to rid himself of this 
strange notion. 

The door-bell, pulled by a feverish hand, rang loudly 
through the anteroom. He rushed to open the door. A 
woman’s form, wrapped in a long black silk cloak, with a 
veil thickly drawn over her face, passed him silently and 
did not stop until she reached the salon. Boris closed 
the door, and, pale and breathless, stood before her. 

It is I,” said Lydie, lifting her veil. 

The light of day was less favorable than the candles of 
the soiree. The clear yellow light of this frosty morning 
brought out many hard lines in the girl’s face : her teeth 
were not as brilliant; her eyes had a cold light in them; 
while her cheeks had that tone of faded rose peculiar to 
women who go out a great deal and never know, what it is 
to retire before the wee smu’ hours. 


SONIA. 


223 


The night before, Lydie had seemed to Boris a young 
creature of twenty or twenty-two. That morning she 
looked like a worn woman of twenty-eight. Only three 
years and a half had elapsed since the day at the spring 
when she had said to Boris, “ I love you.’’ Whence had 
fled all her fresh beauty of her eighteen years ? 

‘^It is I ! ” she repeated, as she sank into a fauteuil. 

Had she smiled, said one loving word, or made one 
caressing gesture, Boris would have fallen on his knees at 
her feet ; the years of absence and indifference on her part 
would have been annihilated by one look of tenderness ; 
her lover’s heart would still have belonged to her, for she 
had been his first and only love. But her eyes were wan- 
dering and indifferent, her lips were too firmly compressed 
to invite a kiss, and the beatings of her heart were quick- 
ened by fright, not by passion. 

thank you for coming,” said Boris, with sudden 
calmness. 

His love was slowly dying. She never cared for me,” 
he thought. ‘‘ Why has she come this morning ? ” 

And this same question, under another form, escaped 
from his lips in spite of himself. 

You have something to say to me ? ” 

Lydie was slightly embarrassed. The young man’s 
coolness disturbed her. After his whispered words of the 
evening before, she had expected another reception — a 
scene of tenderness possibly — and now she found him cold 
and calm as a judge on the bench, weighing her every 
word and look. 

She said to herself, I knew very well that he had no 
heart.” 


224 


SONIA. 


And tins final judgment pronounced, she took no pains 
to find out if she had not been mistaken in it. 

Drawing from her finger the ring which Boris had 
given her at the station the morning of his departure, and 
which she had never worn, she extended it to him without 
a word. As he made no motion to take it, she laid it on 
the table before him. His eyes followed her movements, 
and then fixed themselves on the slender gold circle lying 
on the dark wood. 

If she had but known, that at that very moment, he 
felt something snap within him — something that seemed 
to cry to him for help like a drowning child ! Had she 
known that he was asking for strength to bear this last 
blow — that the eyes and the lips of tlie young man were 
closely guarded, lest he should burst into a torrent of tears 
and reproaches ! 

She knew and guessed nothing of this, however, but 
looked at Boris with astonishment. 

‘^Then — all is over?’^ he said, in a low, sombre voice, 
after a long silence. 

She dropped her eyes, and said not one word. 

Lydie, when you accepted , this ring, did you love 
me?” he continued, in a voice, which, though sad, was 
also severe. 

Having nothing to say, she persisted in her silence. 

^^If you did not love me then — when, then, did you 
care for me ? ” 

The girPs eyes flashed with anger. How did this man 
dare to address her in this tone, and to reproach her? 

^‘1 loved you,” continued Boris, in the same severe 


SONIA. 


225 


voice, so firm and measured, that it was almost without 
modulations ; and yet I did not wish you to feel your- 
self bound, or in any way hampered by ray affection. I 
did not implore your pity, nor ask for oaths. I left you 
mistress of yourself and of your future, and you took 
your choice. Why did you accept my love if you could 
not love me in return ? 

I came here to ask for the letters I had written you,” 
said Mademoiselle Gor^line, rising abruptly. ^^This is 
all I had to say to you, and I am in great haste. Will 
you kindly give them to me ? ” 

Boris sat still, looking at her with an air that was both 
compassionate and severe. 

Do you know what you have thrown away ? ” he con- 
tinued, calmly. I loved you as no one has ever loved 
you. Had you chosen yesterday, I would even then have 
fallen at your feet and worshipped you. But you ! Why 
did you come here to-day? Did you think that my 
sorrow would be assuaged by seeing what you had 
become?” 

Lydie’s eyes and cheeks blazed with anger. She was 
wonderfully like her mother at that moment, as Boris 
recognized with a pang. 

I came because I wanted my letters ! Give them to 
me at once ! ” 

You might have written to me to burn them, and I 
would have destroyed those poor little letters. Lydie, 
why did you lie and tell me that you loved me ? ” 

He spoke to her gently as to a naughty, troublesome 
child. Did he hope to hear from her lips one word of 
14 


226 


SONIA. 


regret? To see in her eye one tear of penitence? Did he 
think to awaken one emotion which would enable him 
to remember her in the future with other feelings than 
bitterness and contempt ? 

I will not bear any reproaches from you ! she cried, 
angrily. ‘^The only one who deserves them is yourself! 
You, who took advantage of my youth and my inexpe- 
rience, to obtain a promise from me when I did not know 
what I was doing. It was due to you that I missed at 
eighteen a brilliant marriage with Armianof, and you 
would like to prevent another unexceptionable match to- 
day. But you will not succeed ! I am about to be 
married, and I want my letters ! ” 

You are to be married, then?” said Boris, still in the 
same tone : to the G4n6ral who was at the soir4e last 
night?” 

What is that to you?” answered the girl, almost with 
insolence. Give me my letters ! ” 

Boris drew the ring, which he had always worn, from 
his finger, took the one Lydie had laid on the table, and 
slowly opened the vasista,* held them a moment in his 
hand as if examining them, and then tossed them care- 
lessly into the light snow, which closed over them. 

I will get your letters,” he said, gently, as he left the 
room. 

When Lydie was alone, she began to be frightened. 
The young man’s calmness did not seem altogether natural 
to her. 


* Movable panes of glass set in the double sashes of the windows in 
Kussia for purposes of ventilation. 


SONIA. 


227 


He must be deranged,” she said to herself, and she 
began to think of escaping before he returned. 

Standing in the centre of the small salon, trembling 
with mingled impatience and fright, she listened to the 
rustling in the next room made by Boris as he turned 
over his papers. She heard him move some metallic sub- 
stance. She was certain that he was loading a pistol. In 
mortal terror she ran toward the anteroom just as Boris 
appeared on the threshold. 

Here are all your letters, mademoiselle,” he said, 
handing her the package. Will you count them ? ” 

‘^It is quite unnecessary!” stammered Lydie, with a 
hot blush of shame. 

I beg that you will do so, and I have a right to insist 
upon, it,” answered the young man. 

The girl looked at him hesitatingly, and read in his 
eyes the utter contempt in which he held her, and which 
she so well deserved. 

I will not I ” she said, attempting to thrust^ the pack- 
age into her muff. 

You must I I insist upon it ! ” replied Boris, arrest- 
ing her movement with a firm hand. 

She stood irresolute, more than ever alarmed by his 
calmness and determination, and began to turn over the 
letters with the one hand that was free. 

They are all here,” she said, in a choked voice. 

The young man released the wrist which he had clasped. 

“ You have nothing more to ask of me ? ” he said, with 
politeness. 

Boris Ivanovitch,” murmured Lydie, much agitated, 


228 


SONIA. 


and ready to burst into tears, I have brought you much 
sorrow ! ” 

His physical strength had conquered her. She was 
almost ready to ask his pardon. 

“ By no means ! ” he answered, with cold cheerfulness. 
^^None worth speaking of! 

She turned toward the anteroom, when the door 'svas 
thrown hastily open, and Sonia entered, followed by 
General Gor6line, who exclaimed, without seeing his 
daughter, 

left my spectacles here, my dear Gr6bof, a little 
while ago — 

And suddenly seeing a lady, who turned her back upon 
him, he stopped short, in great embarrassment. The 
four persons present all stood in silent and awkward 
embarrassment. 

Gor^line was the first to speak. An involuntary gesture, 
and possibly the cloak, revealed the truth. 

“Lydie! You here!^^ 

And the G4n6ral looked five inches taller, in his parental 
wrath and dignity. 

Why are you here?” 

“ And you, papa? Why are you here?” said the young 
girl, with enormous coolness. 

“ That is not your affair ; but you — ” 

“I? Well, I came to go to mass with you; they told 
me that you had just gone out, and I followed you at once. 
You forgot your snuflP-box— or was it your spectacles 
which you left behind you? Never mind. But will 
not mamma be pleased when I tell her that you have 


SONIA. 


229 


been visiting the very worst enemy we have in the 
world?” 

The G4n6ral’s figure seemed to shrink to its normal 
condition — that is to say, below that of his daughter. 

‘^You came to know where I was,” he answered, in 
hesitating meditation. It is very strange that you should 
have come here — to the house of a man who once wished 
to marry you — whom you once loved ! ” 

Lydie stamped her foot impatiently. Very well — go 
and tell my mother all your doubts and suspicions, and 
then she will understand what you do with yourself at 
the hours when she believes you in church.” 

Monsieur Grebof!” said the G6n§ral, suddenly turn- 
ing toward him, who contemplated this scene with folded 
arms. Can you give me your word that my daughter 
did not come here as to a lover?” 

give you my word of honor, G6n6ral,” answered 
Boris, 'Hhat between your daughter and myself there is 
not the faintest question of love I ” 

Come, papa, let us go,” interposed Lydie, in a low 
voice. ^^And if you tell mamma that you met me here, I 
will tell her what terms you are on with a man she hates!” 

Considerably abashed, the General allowed himself to be 
drawn from the house; the door was left open, and for a 
moment Lydie’s irritated voice came back to them, as she 
threatened her father. Soon all was silent. Sonia, in 
great consternation, closed the door. 

Do not stay here, master — it is very cold,” she said to 
Boris, who still stood motionless in the centre of the room. 

She took him by the hand ; he allowed himself to be 


2S0 


SONIA. 


led by her into his sleeping-room. The girl closed the 
door with tender solicitude. The open desk, where Boris 
kept his most valuable papers and his money, told the 
story of the last half-hour. She pushed a chair toward 
the fire, closed the desk, locked it, and placed the key on 
her master’s dressing-table, and then came back to his 
side, where she stood and looked at him, with a great pity 
in her eyes. He was looking at his hand, which wore no 
ring. Sonia discreetly left the room. 

In a moment more, Boris realized all that had taken 
place. 

Miserable woman ! ” he cried aloud, in his rage. 

Miserable woman — she has robbed me of everything — 
of every hope — of every recollection — and worse than all, 
of every ray of respect for her ! ” 

He threw himself on his bed; and man as he was, 
fairly sobbed with rage. By degrees his anger passed 
away, leaving only profound sadness; for had he not 
looked forward for three years to this day, which had so 
drearily ended ? He rose to his feet, and walked with 
slow and measured strides up and down his room. What 
was he thinking of? Bevenge, possibly! 

Twilight came. Boris had eaten nothing, but he con- 
tinued his monotonous walk in his apartment. 

The door opened, and Sonia appeared. 

Will you dine at home, sir?” she said. Dinner will 
be ready in an hour!” 

I shall not dine at all. Leave me in peace!” 

Instead of retiring, the young girl advanced two or 
three steps into the room, and shut the door behind her. 


SONIA. 


231 


Master!’^ she said, in a firm voice. ^^When your 
mother died — and she is to-day in Paradise — you were 
very unhappy!’^ 

Boris, in astonishment, turned and looked at her. 

“To lose your mother was a great misfortune!’^ Sonia’s 
voice trembled. “And yours was a saint on earth. You 
were very sad then, but you were not angry. You knew 
that it was the will of God, and you bore it with 
resignation. But to-day it is different — ^you are very 
angry — ” 

“ How do you know that?” interrupted Boris. 

But she ' did not answer this question. “ It is a sin, 
master — a terrible sin. No greater grief can ever come to 
you than that of last New Year’s day! Why are you 
more wretched now than then?” 

The girlish voice had a certain ring of authority. In 
the gathering darkness, with her arms loosely dropped, 
the slender hands relieved against the heavy straight folds 
of her black robe, she looked like a statue of the Middle 
Ages. Her grave face and eyes were full of tender 
reproach. Again she spoke : 

“ It is very wrong, master, to allow yourself to be 
troubled in this way. The young lady does not care for 
you ; she is a bad woman, like her mother. I knew this 
when I was in the country with them.” 

Boris started. 

“You are going to tell me that I am only a servant, 
and I know very well that these affairs are no concern of 
mine; but your mother loved me, and if she were here — ” 
Sonia’s voice broke. “If she could see you now, she 


232 


SONIA. 


would not be pleased with you ; and she would pray God 
to change your heart ! 

The grave, pure tones of Sonia’s voice had regained 
their firmness. Her arms were modestly crossed over 
her breast, and in silence she waited for a reply or a 
reproach. 

It was momentarily growing darker. The young man’s 
head drooped : he seemed to be listening to some internal 
admonition. 

Sophia ! ” he said, in a few moments. 

At this name of Sophia” — which almost never escaped 
from her master’s lips — the girl, accustomed to the more 
familiar “ Sonia,” turned toward him hastily and listened. 

“Do you know the Greek signification of your name?” 
asked Boris, with a faint shadow of a smile. 

“No, master.” 

“It means ^Wisdom.’ And you were well named! 
Light the lamp and bring it in.” 

Sonia disappeared noiselessly, and returned almost imme- 
diately, holding the huge lamp, with one hand high above 
her head, as was her usual habit. Before putting it down, 
she hesitated for a moment, looking for a place on the 
table, which was piled with books and papers. It was 
exactly in the same way that she had stood at the side of 
Madame Gr^bof’s couch at the moment when her son first 
realized that she had died. 

Overwhelmed by this sudden thought, Boris turned 
away, but not until he had met the girl’s gaze. What 
tenderness, what mingled submission and reproach he read 
in those limpid eyes 1 


SONIA. 


233 


She placed the lamp on the table, and turned to leave 
the room, when he stopped her. 

‘^Do you wish to learn to read and write?” he said, in 
a perfectly calm voice. 

Certainly I do, master ! ” 

“ Then sit there,” he said, in a tone of authority, as he 
placed his hand on her head. I will give you your first 
lesson now.” 

And the two spent an hour over the mysteries of the 
alphabet. 


234 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER XXIII. 

ARMIANOF AGAIN. 

T hree months elapsed. The Gor6lines had gone 
into the country, and Lydie was not married. Boris 

had received this information from Professor B , for 

the G^n^ral had never reappeared. 

Moscow was empty. Every one had gone to the country 
or travelling. Boris, yielding at last to Sonia’s entreaties, 
decided to go himself and superintend the farm at Gribova, 
that miniature domain which the girl looked upon as one 
of the most important estates in Russia. 

Just as he was about to depart, in the beginning of 
June, he one day received a most unexpected visit from 
Prince Armianof. 

“You surely did not suppose that I would pass through 
Moscow without unearthing you,” said the young man, as 
they smoked their cigars by the open window, through 
which the light breeze brought the sweet smell of the 
expanding buds on the birch trees. “ The country is par- 
ticularly attractive at this season, when Moscow is very 
ugly under its triple coating of dust ; but I should never- 
theless have remained a week if I had not succeeded in 
seeing you before the expiration of that time.” 

“ Why can we not go together ? ” said Boris. 

“ To-morrow morning, then,” answered his guest. 

“ This evening, if you choose.” 


SONIA. 235 

That would be best,” concluded the Prince. We 
will go in my caleche. You are alone ? ” 

No ; 1 have my housekeeper.” 

'^Is she very heavy? Will the springs support her?” 
asked Armianof, with comical anxiety. 

He was thinking of his own housekeeper, who weighed 
about two hundred pounds. 

This is she,” said Boris, with a smile. 

Sonia came in bearing a tray with china, in preparation 
for the traditional tea always offered to guests in Russia. 

Is this the person whom you call your housekeeper ? ” 
cried Armianof. Why, my dear fellow, she has not near 
weight enough.” 

Sonia looked at the speaker with a faint curiosity in her 
eyes. The Prince recollected that he had seen her on the 
diligence. 

You remember the day, Grebof ?” he said, with a sigh. 
^'Ah ! those were pleasant days. We were young then.” 

The two friends set out in the caliche, just as they did 
after the Prince had followed Boris in such hot haste. 
But on this occasion Sonia sat on the box, by the side of 
the coachman. 

During the first few days at Grehova, Armianof and his 
host talked incessantly and of a thousand different things. 
But on one subject they were both profoundly silent ; the 
one dared not ask a question, and the other had nothing 
pleasant to communicate. 

Armianof nevertheless had formed his own opinion, and 
the evening previous to his departure, knowing that friends 
who are about to separate for an indefinite length of time 


236 


SONIA. 


are more confidentially disposed than at other times, he 
induced Boris to take a long walk, and spoke to him as he 
thought he ought to do. 

‘‘Well, you remain at Moscow?” he asked. 

“ I think so. Life at St. Petersburg is too worldly to 
be altogether agreeable to me. It is difficult, if not 
impossible, to isolate oneself there. Here I work to much 
better advantage.” 

“ You are quite right. Our mutual friend, the savant, 
requested me to present you to several intelligent men, to 
whom you would be useful. I will take pleasure in doing 
so on my return in the autumn ; at present, all the birds 
are flown.” 

Boris thanked him with a smile. After a long silence 
the Prince continued, with some hesitation : 

“ Do you intend to marry ?” 

“ No ; I do not,” answered Boris, curtly, with the color 
surging to his face. 

The constant, dull heartache had quickened to a sharper 
pang, and his heart beat fast with hot indignation against 
Lydie. Armianof saw that he had given him pain ; he 
nevertheless, with apparent unconsciousness, resumed : 

“ Then you have seen Mademoiselle Goreline?” 

Boris did not answer. The Prince gently placed his 
hand on his friend’s shoulder, and then said, with quiet 
persistence ; 

“ You know, my dear fellow, that I have no wish to 
intrude on your private affairs, and still less desire to 
hurt your feelings in the smallest degree; but, on the 
contrary, that I wish most earnestly to serve you in any 


SONIA. 


237 


way which lies in my power. Did you ever know me to 
deceive you ? 

Boris looked up, and the cordial sympathy he read in 
Armianof ’s face carried with it a certain serenity. 

You are right. I have seen her,’’ he said. 

‘^And has she forgotten you ? ” 

I am surely neither the first nor the last man in the 
world to whom such a disaster has occurred ! ” said Boris, 
hotly. 

^‘Precisely,” answered Armianof, with a sigh, which 
indicated that he too might have had reason for similar 
regrets. I was convinced from the beginning that this 
affair would end precisely as it has done. Had I men- 
tioned this conviction to you then, it is possible that I 
might have saved you three years of unhappiness, or 
rather of uncertainty. But after all a man is compelled 
to exercise a certain discretion and reticence in such 
matters, or else acquire the reputation of ill nature and 
interference.” 

But how could you foresee this ? ” asked Boris, with 
quiet astonishment. 

‘^Are you altogether yourself again, and heart-whole? 
May I tell you exactly my ideas ?” 

Certainly,” answered Gr^bof, looking away. 

He was arming himself for some new blow. 

^^Mademoiselle Gor^line did not love you and never 
could have loved you,” said Armianof, in slow, measured 
tones. ^^She could not love you because her nature is 
coquettish and frivolous, passionately fond of luxury and 
the gratification of her vanity, and a total stranger to any 


238 


SONIA. 


elevated sentiments. It is not that I blame her for this,” 
he hastily continued, as he saw Boris about to speak; 
‘‘she is simply just that which nature and education have 
made her, and au fond she is not bad in any way. She 
is, or was rather, a hundred times better than her mother, 
who has absolutely embittered the existence of my beloved 
old Gor^line, who is really one of the best of men. But 
with her natural disposition and her surroundings, she 
could not possibly be in any respect different from what 
she is. Had she married, at an early age, a good man of 
moderate fortune, she might have become a good wife and 
mother ; but never, Grebof, could she have grown into a 
companion for you. You asked her for a thing which she 
had not to give you. You asked her for love, and she 
knows not even the meaning of the word, and is totally 
incapable of the passion.” 

“ But she loved me once ! ” cried Gr4bof, with the old 
pain gnawing at his heart-strings — a pain which he had 
fancied dead for evermore. 

“No, my dear fellow,” answered Armianof, firmly, 
“you deceive yourself; she never loved you. At the very 
time that she promised to be your wife, she entertained the 
idea of becoming mine, and she encouraged that belief in 
the minds of all who spoke to her about it, with smiles 
and blushes.” 

“ Who told you this ? ” asked Boris, angrily. 

He repudiated the idea of having been deceived then^ 
although he knew very well that he had been since. 

“My old governess, who had it from Goreline’s people, 
and who told me the whole story after you had gone. 


SONIA. 


239 - 


Besides it was clear enough to all who had eyes to see. 
When I discovered that you had left so suddenly, and 
heard why — heard that you and Lydie loved each other, 
it was my turn to feel that I had been trifled with and 
deceived ; yes, deceived, for she had given me every reason 
to believe that she was interested in me.^^ 

Boris kept silent. The accumulating evidence chilled 
his whole being. 

‘‘Would you like to hear the history of Mademoiselle 
Goreline since your departure? All Moscow knows it, 
and any one will repeat it to you, since such things are 
only too common among poor and ambitious girls. When 
you were away, she accepted the addresses of a young man 
with limited means, who soon withdrew, startled by the 
luxury of the toilettes to which Madame Gor^line had 
accustomed her daughter. Then appeared on the scene a 
government employ^ ; he too, I think, was frightened away 
by the mother; then a Colonel; and finally, a Judge. 
With each new aspirant, Madame Gor^line declared to her 
intimate friends, under promise of secrecy, that her daugh- 
ter was engaged, while in reality her hand had not once 
been asked. This little habit of hers got about, and the 
young men became disgusted, and one after the other with- 
drew. How is it that with all her incontestable beauty, 
surrounded as she has always been with so much homage, 
that Mademoiselle Goreline has never felt nor inspired a 
serious afiection? Even you loved her with your head 
rather than with your heart. It. is that the girl has no 
heart; she has simply a nervous sensibility which she 
calls upon when needful ! When I think that but for you 


.240 


SONIA. 


I unquestionably should have married her, and I feel that 
I have had a most narrow escape,^’ 

Boris was still silent. Armianof continued : 

You can never understand such a nature as hers; you 
are unwilling to admit that such a woman as I have 
depicted could ever have quickened your pulses ! Alas ! my 
friend, it was not she whom you worshipped : it was love 
itself, with all its sweetness and its pains ; it was her very 
great beauty, which was something remarkable at eighteen ; 
it was the spring-time, your age, and your own noble 
nature which all combined to deceive you. She, in her 
turn, thought for a brief period that she loved you, and 
therefore at that hour she was not so culpable ; her seven- 
teen years were accomplices of her falsehood ; she loved 
your love. Had you been able to carry her oif and seclude 
her from the world, she might have made a good wife, as 
I told you. Nevertheless, thank heaven, as I do, that you 
did not become her husband ; for life is before you — you 
are already known — ^you will become celebrated — fortune 
will come to you, and you will be beloved by some woman 
who is worthy of you.” 

Boris shook his head; the mere idea of loving again 
was terrifying to him; he did not feel himself strong 
enough to begin to suffer anew. 

You will see,” said the Prince, in reply to this silent 
denial. do not say that it will be to-morrow; you 
must have time to recuperate ; but, believe me, this woman 
— this doll, rather — doea not deserve to be treated like a 
reality. You will do some day as I have done — you. 
will meet a young girl with an honest, upright nature. 


SONIA. 


241 


who will give her whole heart and soul to you, and you , 
will marry her ! ” 

^^Are you thinking of marriage ? exclaimed Boris, in 
amazement. 

“ Yes, and before the end of the year,” answered 
Armianof, with a contented smile. make what the 
world calls a mesalliance ; I shall marry the daughter of a 
Professor, and we shall be perfectly happy.” 

I hope so, from the very bottom of my heart,” said 
Boris, with much emotion, grasping his friend’s hand. 

The young men silently returned to the house ; they • 
were to separate the next day ; but between them now was 
a tie — the growth of mutual confidence and esteem — which 
nothing could sunder. 

15 


242 


SONIA. 


CHAPTEK XXIV. 


UNEXPECTED VISITORS. 

INTEP came, then summer; then two years more. 



V V Boris saw himself from day to day more appreci- 
ated and more famous; his incessant and conscientious 
toil was worth all the patronage with which he had not 
•cared to entangle himself ; his dull life was in every 
respect similar to that he had led during that dreary 
winter which followed the loss of his mother ; his lodgings 
were the same; and, with the exception of brief periods 
accorded to social relations, nothing ever interrupted his 
solitary labors, which had become to him the very essence 


of life. 


Many reviews and certain journals, published regular 
articles from his pen. He had sometimes the opportunity 
of aiding beginners, by giving them opportunities of 
making themselves known, and this gratified both his 
heart and ambition. 

His summers passed at GrebOva ; his winters at Moscow, 
under the soft light of his study-lamp in the genial atmos- 
phere of his well-warmed rooms, surrounded by familiar 
objects. What more could he ask? In the cultivated 
circles, where he occasionally showed himself, more than 
one woman looked at him with admiring eyes. His height 
was commanding ; his step manly, and his face frank and 
kind. 


SONIA. 


243 


Mothers, after careful inquiries in regard to his fortune 
and position, received him cordially, and invited him to 
come and see them without ceremony, whenever he 
pleased — they were always at home.^^ 

Boris bowed, made one visit, perhaps, and was seen no 
more. Several of his friends spoke seriously to him of 
marrying, but it was time thrown away. 

He cares for nothing but his work ! said his friends, 
with mournful shakes of the head; ^^he is in love with 
that!’^ 

This was quite true; he loved his work, and his quiet, 
peaceful life. From the idea of introducing a new element 
into his modest home — a home that was so simple that it 
was almost poor — he shrank with absolute terror. Any 
change, he felt, would destroy the sweet harmony of his 
existence. 

My hour is not yet come ! he said to himself at times, 
as he dismissed certain suggestions made to him by enter- 
prising friends. am not made to love.” And finally, 
as time went on, he added — 

^^It is too late — my hour has passed, never to 
return ! ” 

A certain melancholy overwhelmed him sometimes, 
when he remembered that he was not yet thirty, and that 
his youth had brought him only pain. Then, the recol- 
lection, that his honorable labors could never deceive him, 
reconciled him to life. 

“An old head on young shoulders ! ” said one ; “ per- ' 
haps it is disgust with some former love affair,” thought 
another ; and both were right ! 


244 


SONIA. 


The home-like look about him, which Boris so highly 
valued, was not entirely due to material surroundings. 

A long time previous, Sonia had conquered the mys- 
teries of reading and writing ; and under the young man’s 
tutelage, had learned enough arithmetic to keep the 
accounts of a household ; but this, in the eyes of her young 
master, was not enough ; and therefore, in the evenings, 
when the house was placid after the disorders of the day, 
the docile pupil came to read at his side, where she could 
ask questions of him when she failed to understand. 

He did' not look at her ; she was utterly noiseless, except 
when her soft voice addressed him a timid question, 
or thanked him with a syllable ; and then silence again 
reigned in the peaceful room. 

During all this time the young girl had read a great 
deal ; and better still, had profited by this reading. Not 
one novel had passed through her hands. Boris did not 
own one. But history and elementary science had, by 
degrees, formed this austere little mind. 

It was impossible to believe that three years more had 
passed over her head. She had grown a little taller, to be 
sure; but her clear, pale complexion, and delicately- 
chiselled lips, were unchanged. She laughed less, so that 
her even, fresh white teeth were more rarely seen. She 
moved about the house with quiet grace, pursuing her 
daily duties with such methodical industry that they 
seemed to be done almost by machinery. 

At the beginning of the fourth year after his return to 
Moscow, Boris received a letter from his former patron, 
who, just as a certain important work of his was going to 


SONIA. 


245 


press, was taken with so severe an attack of rheumatic gout 
that it was utterly impossible for him to watch over it and 
correct the proofs. 

He implored Boris, if the thing were in any degree 
practicable, to come and pass several weeks at St. Peters- 
burg, to take his place until his health was in some degree 
restored. 

Laying aside all his other affairs, the young man started 
olf as soon as possible, leaving Sonia guardian of his home. 

The days seemed endless to the girl, now that she could 
not look forward to her master’s coming in— now that his 
place was vacant ; and that evening after evening passed 
without her addressing a word to a single human being. 

She saw no one except the tradespeople ; and to them 
she addressed not one word except on business. 

What good was there in talking,” she said, when 
Boris was not there to answer?” 

She had lived, up to this time, with an almost untamed 
and timid nature, asking nothing more of life than that 
which she had — satisfied with her present happiness, 
which she had thought would last forever. Would not 
her master be always there ? And yet he had gone ! 

He would come back, of course ; and he even occa- 
sionally wrote her a few lines, which she read over and 
over again, to satisfy herself that she had forgotten none 
of his directions ; and yet she invariably felt, as she took 
in the lamp at dinner-time, a sharp heartache — why this 
lamp, and her master away ? She lighted it, nevertheless, 
— placed it on the desk, and took her seat by its side, as 
if her master were there. But she dropped her book very 


246 


SONIA. 


often. The very solitude, of which, at other times, she 
had been so fond, now terrified her. She snatched a shawl, 
tlirew it over her head, and ran to the nearest church for 
refuge; and when evening prayers were over, hurried 
home, as if she expected to find Boris waiting for her. 

No ; he was not there ! The lamp before the shrine 
burned serenely; and she often wept until midnight, 
longing for the master, and the life and the light which he 
had taken away with him. 

She received two visits during his absence; the first 
was from Armianof, who, passing the winter on his estates, 
had come to Moscow for a few hours only, to catch a 
glimpse of his friends. 

At the sight of the slender, dainty-looking girl who 
opened the door when he knocked, Armianof started with 
surprise. 

He did not recognize Sonia. She had grown very much 
taller since he had seen her. Her dark, stiff* dress of some 
common material, fell around her graceful figure in heavy 
folds; her hands, though sunburned, were exquisitely 
formed and well cared-for ; a narrow white collar was just 
visible around her throat, under the heavy masses of brown 
hair, which seemed almost to weigh down her delicate 
head. Armianof hesitated. 

‘‘Pardon me, madame,^^ said he; “I wished to see 
Monsieur Gr6bof.^^ 

“ My master is at St. Petersburg,^^ answered the young 
girl ; “ he will not return for some time.” 

At the sound of the grave, somewhat voile voice, the 
Prince recognized General Goreline’s little handmaiden. 


SONIA. 


247 


this you, Sonia said he — formerly he had used, 
the familiar/^ should never have known you.^^ 

The girl’s dignified face slightly relaxed into a faint 
smile, while she quietly gave to the Prince her master’s 
address. Armianof departed, asking himself more than 
one question, which only time could solve. 

The second visit was less agreeable to Sonia. One 
fine day, when curled up on the floor — a favorite trick of 
hers — and absorbed in reading, she heard the door-bell 
ring violently. Throwing her book on the table, she ran 
to open it. 

Two ladies, in half mourning, stood there. Dresses of 
wrinkled silk, jackets of threadbare velvet, and gloves 
carefully mended, indicated that, if once well off, they were 
so no longer. At one glance, Sonia, who knew wonder- 
fully little of the world, measured the distance between 
the past and the present of these two ladies, who were 
Madame Goreline, accompanied by her daughter, both 
much aged. 

While they asked about Boris, they measured Sonia 
from head to foot; and Lydie recognized her. 

Mamma,” she said, without taking the trouble to lower 
her voice, this girl is the one whom you sent off*, and 
whom Monsieur Gr6bof took away with him ! ” 

It is not possible ! ” exclaimed Madame Gor^line, who 
had not seen the child since that stormy day. 

Yes, but it is ! You are Sonia, I am sure?” 

Yes, Mademoiselle.” And the girl’s honest eyes met 
the hard, scornful glance thrown at her, as it were, by 
Lydie. 


248 


SONIA. 


^^Your fortunes are bettered, to be sure,” said the 
mother, as she examined with jealous eyes the simple but 
fresh and well-made garments of her former servant. 

Monsieur Boris certainly does not allow you to lack for 
anything ! ” 

^‘No, madame; he is the best of masters,” answered 
Sonia, with equal coolness. 

Boris was a good master, but it was with a tinge of 
malicious pleasure that little Sonia gave utterance to this 
truth. 

^^You have been very lucky,” replied Lydie. ‘^You 
were ugly enough in those days ! — not, though, that you 
are much better-looking now ! ” 

But with taste and care you will do very well,” broke 
in Madame Goreline, in what she meant as a conciliatory 
tone. ‘^Come, Lydie. And when did you say that 
Monsieur Gr^bof will return ? ” she continued, addressing 
Sonia. 

In about two months probably,” the girl answered, as 
serene and cool as candor itself. 

Very well, we will see him then. Good-morning! ” 

The door closed. Sonia decided that they were two 
very disagreeable persons, but that she had done well not 
to reply to them as she was tempted to do ; and then took 
up her book and went to reading with the enthusiasm with 
which she always attacked everything. 


SONIA. 


249 


CHAPTER XXV. 

NEW THOUGHTS AND PLANS. 

H IS duties completed, Boris returned to Moscow. 

Before going there, he had stopped at Gribova, 
and, detained by the difficulty of procuring horses, was 
in consequence very late in reaching his home. 

The night was half over when he gained the hills which 
encircle the holy city. Lights, scattered here and there, 
indicated the immense space it covers. The silent fau- 
bourgs each seemed a huge town by itself. His horses, 
fatigued by a journey of thirty kilometres, struggled along 
through the half-melted snows of March ; but as he had 
long before given up the hope of reaching Moscow at an 
early hour, he quietly resigned himself to the slow tedious- 
ness of his journey. By degrees the houses stood more 
closely together. Spire after spire of the churches were 
faintly seen against the gray sky ; he was in the city. In 
another half hour he would be at home, where he was not 
expected. The faint light from the altars shone through 
the windows of the church which stood opposite his house. 

^^Spnia will be surprised,’’ he said to himself with a 
smile. Surprise and pleasure to him were one and the 
same. ^^Two o’clock!” he added, as he sounded his 
repeater. ^^It is both too early and too late to arrive. 
But after all, what does it matter? Here I am.” 

The concierge, half asleep, slowly opened the huge 


250 


SONIA. 


porte coch^re, the sledge drove away, and Boris, with his 
valise in his hand, ran lightly up the stairs and rang very 
gently at the door of his apartment. He waited, and 
rang a second time more loudly. 

Behind the door he heard the sound of quickly coming 
feet, which were evidently bare ; and a voice sweet, though 
startled, called : 

“ Who is there ? ” 

It is I, Sonia — Boris Gr4bof. I have come ; open the 
door.’^ 

A joyous little cry, the key turned, the door opened 
wide, and Sonia appeared with her lamp in her hand. 

A long linen garment covered her slender figure from 
throat to feet. A scarlet shawl was thrown hastily about her, 
while her superb hair fell in rippling masses to her knees. 

Master! master! Is it you?” she cried joyously, as 
she closed the door. 

Boris looked at her, almost as if he did not know her. 
Was this the same Sonia whom he had left some months 
before, so pale and so frail? Her eyes flashed with joy, 
and possibly with fever, for she trembled from head to 
foot, so great was her surprise. Her cheeks were crimson 
and her red lips smiled. Was this Sonia ? 

The girl saw nothing of the effect she produced on her 
master. She was totally unconscious of any change in 
herself, and had even forgotten the simplicity of her 
costume'; and it was the cold that recalled her to the fact 
that she was but thinly clad. She ran away to dress 
herself more warmly, and came back almost immediately 
to make arrangements for the comfort of her master. 
The samovar was soon smoking upon the table. 


SONIA. 


251 


^'Sit down and let us have some tea together,” said 
Boris. You are trembling with cold.” 

No, master, it is with pleasure. Oh ! how I have 
longed to have you back again ! ” 

And Sonia’s sparkling eyes laughed with joy, as did 
her lips. 

“ You are glad to see me, then ? ” said Boris, delighted 
at the girl’s happiness. 

I should think so, indeed. Everything has been so 
dismal here without you. You never can imagine how 
dreary and lonely I have been ! ” 

What did you do to amuse yourself? ” 

^^To amuse myself? Well! I made a new dress, and 
then I read ; and then I read more. All those,” and she 
pointed to a pile of books which lay on a small table in 
the corner. I put scraps of paper to mark those things 
which I did not understand. You will explain them all 
to me, will you not, master ? ” 

And she looked at him again with that expression of 
ioyous confidence, which had already gone straight to 
Grdbof ’s heart. 

I will explain anything in the world you wish,” he 
answered, after a long silence. But just at present I feel 
that the best thing for me to do is to sleep.” 

‘^I-am ashamed of myself,” cried Sonia, darting to the 
linen press. 

And in a few moments more the bed was made up with 
fresh sheets, and the girl, as she withdrew, lingered on the 
threshold to utter her usual words : 

Good-night, master. Do you need anything more ? ” 


252 


SONIA. 


How sweet her voice was ! how fresh and clear ! But 
it was no longer the voice of a child ; it was that of a 
woman. 

^^No; thanks. Nothing more,” answered Boris, ab- 
sorbed in some strange new thought. 

Sonia disappeared, and the young man was left alone, to 
wonder at the strange transformation which had taken 
place in her. He had doubtless thought — if he had 
thought about it at all — that she would always remain the 
same slender, pale little creature whom he had rescued 
from Madame Gor^line’s oppression. 

Suddenly, like one of those mysterious river plants, 
which send forth flowers and leaves in one night, to float 
in gorgeous triumph upon the blue, tranquil waters, the 
child had burst into womanhood — and what a woman she 
was ! at once modest and seductive — a coquette, without 
knowing it — by virtue of her magnificent eyes and her 
bewildering smile. And thus he found that under his 
roof, instead of the docile child he had left behind him, he 
had now a young girl in all the youth and beauty of her 
eighteen years ! What on earth should he do with her? 

Here Boris felt that he was thrown against a granite 
wall ; for to this question neither his heart nor his head 
had any reply in readiness. What should he do with 
Sonia? But how could he do without her? Was she not 
part and parcel of his home ? 

As he sat thus buried in thought, with sleep still far 
from him, a prolonged deep sound of a bell rang through 
the house. Boris gathered himself up with difficulty. 

Matins!” he said to himself, ‘^and four o’clock 
already ! ” 


SONIA. 


253 


From afar off there came another single muffled clang 
as if replying to the first, and then ten more from different 
quarters of the town. A silence ensued, and then in a 
moment more all the bells rang out. That strange funereal. 
Lenten knell — a solemn sound which, once heard, is never 
again forgotten. 

It was this magnificent wail to which Boris listened 
from his window. 

The smaller bells rang in their turn one solitary peal, 
like discreet and single tear-drops, then all the hammers 
struck at once upon the resounding metal in one despairing 
cry. From the north and the south, from the right and 
the left, came the funeral lament, and then the three 
thousand bells in Moscow’s church-towers rang out like 
the vibrations of some vast -^olian harp. 

A strange melody, composed of scattered notes, flew 
from one bell as it were to another — in strange accord ; a 
cluster of arpeggios, like a pearl necklace falling from its 
strings into a shield of brass ; then some fugitive notes, 
followed by a tinkling harmony of inexpressible melan- 
choly, as if sung by spirits in pain, astray in the fast 
falling snow. 

Not another sound without, in the almost palpable dark- 
ness — nothing but that fitful wail. 

This stupendous funereal lament, which alone from each 
bell, would have been very melancholy in its harmonious 
whole, produced a very different effect — a certain calm joy 
— and awakened in the mind of dreaming listeners, certain 
vague feelings of life, security, and companionship ; and 
to a poet how much more ? The wind, sighing through 


254 


SONIA, 


lofty forest trees, has nothing more solemn and grand than 
those bells. 

Boris listened, until one by one the vibrations faded 
away. A distant church-tower continued for a minute 
longer than all the others to send its appeals toward the 
far-off sky. 

A great silence then followed ; the dripping of the water 
from the roof on the melting snow below was the only 
sound ; a soft, damp breeze, precursor of spring, blew the 
young man^s hair. All at once he felt a glow of unspeak- 
able unhappiness. 

The end of Lent ! ’’ he thought. Easter and spring- 
time ! And my name is printed on that book with that 
of the kind savant to whom I owe so much ! Shall I have 
both fame and fortune?’^ 

He fell asleep full of different hopes, and plans. 

It was very late when Boris awoke. The strong wind 
which arose at dawn had blown away the fog; a bright 
sunshine was melting the snow on the roofs, and the 
water poured down in brilliant sheets. A discreet hand 
knocked lightly at his door. 

Who is there called Boris, only half awake. 

It is I, master — Sonia ! It is past twelve o’clock. 
Do you not want some breakfast?” 

Certainly,” answered the young man. I had no idea 
that it was so late. Lay the table. I will be with you 
almost immediately.” 

His toilette was quickly made, and he soon opened the 
door of the small salon, which was also the dining-room. 

The white linen, the shining porcelain, the carafe of cut 


SONIA. 


256 


crystal through which glittered the rays of the sun pierc- 
ing the mass of growing plants in the window, were all so ’ 
home-like and agreeable to the eye, that the young man’s 
heart leaped with pleasure. 

He uttered a sigh of satisfaction as he drew a chair to 
the table. He was again at home, and what palace, how- 
ever magnificent, can equal that humble home where one 
is master, where each thing is your own, and gives you a 
silent welcome ! 

Be patient, master, I am coming ! ” said Sonia from 
outside the door. She appeared in another minute, carry- 
ing in both hands a smoking dish whose steam surrounded 
her rosy, smiling face with a sort of halo. 

She deposited her burthen on the table. 

‘^Good-day, master!” she said, with a profound bow ' 
and courtesy after the Russian custom. Then she took 
her place behind him ready to wait upon him. 

Boris met the honest, beaming eyes, which always made 
him think of his mother. 

Eat, master, I beg of you. I hope you will find your 
breakfast good, for you must be in great need of it.” 

Boris was very hungry, but he could not take his eyes 
off the white throat and luxuriant braids, nor from that 
simple gown, and the delicate wrists from which the 
sleeves were carefully rolled up. 

Sonia, how old are you?” he said, suddenly. 

The you surprised the girl. 

Have I offended you in any way?” she murmured, in 
much trouble. 

^^No, indeed !” answered Boris, coloring slightly. 


256 


SONIA* 


How old are you 

I do not know exactly/’ she answered, in a relieved 
tone ; either sixteen or seventeen. Why do you ask ?” 

^^That I may know,” answered her master, with a 
smile. 

And why did he ask ? He could not have told him- 
self. 

We had visitors in your absence,” continued Sonia, 
seeing that he was not disposed to talk. Prince 
Arinianof.” 

Yes, I know it. He wrote to me,” replied Boris, 
eating with an excellent appetite. 

Sonia mentioned several other visitors, and then named, 
with a certain hesitation, the wife and daughter of General 
Gor^line. 

Gor^line !” repeated Boris, with his fork in the air; 
‘^are you not mistaken, child ?” 

‘‘Oh! no, master; it was certainly they — ^they were 
both in black, but poorly dressed.” 

“Ah ! ” answered her master, thoughtfully. “ Did they 
say what they wanted ? ” 

“ No ; they simply said they would return.” 

Gr^bof reflected for a few moments, then suddenly 
resumed his knife and fork as if resolved not to lose time. 
Sonia, following him with her eyes, was properly astonished 
and pleased at the compliment paid to her culinary skill. 

“Is it good, master?” she s^id, eagerly. 

“Excellent! And you — do you not eat your break- 
fast?” 

“Yes, after you have finished.” 


SONIA. 


257 


Boris looked at the rosy cheeks and happy eyes which 
were by his side, restrained a sentence which he was about 
to utter, and finished his breakfast in silence. 

As he rose, Sonia hastened to clear the table. 

Let those things be ! cried Gr4bof, impatiently. 

Sonia looked at him in astonishment. 

^^Why do you do such things?” He stopped, not 
knowing in precisely what words to couch his sentiments. 

‘‘Dear master! who would do it if I did not?” an- 
swered Sonia, with a soft little laugh. “You took me to 
wait upon you — things must be in order, or you would 
certainly send me.away!” 

She laughed and talked, as she moved busily between 
the salon and the kitchen. 

“Send her away!” Boris could not smile at this jest. 
Send away Sonia ! the very light and life of his home ! 
Then returned the troublesome question — what was he to 
do with the young girl ? 

“ I will think about it later,” he said, and he went out 
on business. 

“ Later” is the Bussian^s great word. 

On his way he had a brilliant idea; but whatever it 
was, it was by no means a consoling one, and totally 
robbed him of his morning’s gayety. By dint of steady 
thought, he had decided that there was only one solution 
to the problem. 

He re-entered the house, however, determined to do 
what he had decided was for the best. 

“ Sonia,” he said, w'hile she waited on him at dinner, 
“have you ever thought of marrying?” 

16 


258 


SONIA. 


“I?” she answered, in great amazement. 

“Has no one made love to you during my absence? 
lias no handsome young fellow asked you to marry him ? ” 

“Asked me?’’ she repeated, more and more bewildered, 
and blushing to the tips of her cars. “ No one,” she con- 
tinued, firmly ; “ no one whatever. But why do you ask, 
master ? ” 

It was Boris who had taught her to ask “ why ” when 
she failed to understand anything; and at this moment 
he possibly regretted his instructions. 

“ Because,” he answered, slowdy and with some confu- 
sion, “ I have decided to do something for you when you 
are married — and now that you are eighteen — ” 

He hesitated ; he hardly knew in what words to explain 
his intentions. 

Sonia waited a moment, and finding that he had no 
intention of saying more, she began to speak in the grave, 
slow voice which he had heard but twice before in his 
life from her lips — the day he had lost his mother, and the 
other time when Lydie had betrayed him. 

“Master!” she said, and a certain innocent reproach 
vibrated in her tones. “Your dead mother made me 
promise her to serve you faithfully all ray life ! If I am 
unfortunate enough to displease you, and if you order me 
to leave your house, it is not a husband whose protection I 
should seek — I should go to the house of the Lord, where, 
perhaps, they would condescend to receive me as a servant. 
If I ever offend you, my master, it is God alone who could 
comfort me ; and it is to a convent that I should go. If 
therefore I have not displeased you, allow me to continue 
to serve you ! ” 


SONIA. 


259 


Erect and with her arms falling at her side, she was 
again the Sonia of other days ; her words were humble, 
but her dignity was perfect, and Boris it was, who felt 
humiliated and belittled. 

As she finished speakings she was about to prostrate 
herself after the common Russian custom. He lifted her 
before her brow touched the earth. She did not persist, 
but straightened herself, and awaited his reply, with her 
sweet pure eyes fixed on his. 

^^You are right, and I am a fool!’^ he said suddenly, 
and turned away.. He was really ashamed to meet her 
eyes, and yet he felt himself compelled to do so — so strong 
was their magnetism. 

I am a fool ! he repeated, laughing to conceal his 
embarrassment. Go ! I will not talk any more nonsense 
to-day.’^ 

Sonia resumed her ordinary expression — that is to say, 
the one which was new to Boris. Her fair face had a 
soft color in the rounded cheeks, and to her eyes and lips 
the smiles returned ; and later still, above the hissing and 
bubbling of the tea-kettle, he heard her humming a 
peasant's song — and this was a sound he had not heard 
from her for years. 

Many visits, much business, and innumerable cares 
had accumulated during the absence of Boris, who for 
a fortnight was in his rooms only to sleep. Sonia found 
no time to discuss her studies with . him, but her patience 
was untiring, and the house was full of happiness. 

By degrees this outside work and excitement calmed 
down ; they fell back into the old groove, to the infinite 
contentment of both Sonia and Boris. 


260 


SONIA. 


CHAPTER XXVI. 


A FAIR HORIZON 


XE afternoon the young master had settled down to 



his work. Sonia was putting the salon in order 
when the bell rang, and a voice which Boris failed to 
recognize, so sharp had its tones become, asked for Mon- 
sieur Grebof. 

Come in, mademoiselle,” answered Sonia. 

Announce us ! ” said the same voice. 

While Sonia disembarrassed the visitors of their wraps 
and furs, the voice added, in a lower tone, and in French : 

You see, mamma ! She is absolutely elegant ! ” 

^^A mere waiting woman !” replied the other person. 

At this kind and courteous observation Boris was no 
longer in doubt: it was Madame Goreline and her 
daughter. 

Instinctively he examined Sonia, who, after having 
introduced them to the salon, now came to give him the 
names of his visitors. There was nothing elegant in her 
toilette itself — a very simple stuff dress of a soft shade of 
brown — a white collar and black apron. It was, indeed, the 
costume of a waiting woman, but one who is exceptionably 
careful and neat. But that which gave an air of fete to 
this severe simplicity, where not an end of ribbon, or scrap 
of lace was visible, was the care with which the dress was 
fitted to the graceful figure; the classic head and rich 


SONIA. 


261 


hair; the delicate tone of the complexion, and the girhs 
simple' dignity. She had no look of a waiting-maid, and 
yet her whole attire was not worth live roubles. 

Boris saw all this at one glance, and smiled at Sonia, 
who questioned him with her eyes earnestly, but almost 
unconsciously. She had grown pale as she pronounced 
Mademoiselle Gor^line’s name. Did she anticipate a pain- 
ful scene for her master ? It is quite possible. 

But the smile reassured her ; she answered back with 
another, and retired to the kitchen to continue her in- 
terrupted avocations. 

As he entered 4 the salon, Gr^bof felt himself to be 
entirely his own master. The Past was dead, as dead as 
if it had never existed. The two ladies rose when they 
saw him; he saluted them politely, and offered them 
chairs, and then took a seat himself. 

Lydie was no longer Lydie. She was a faded old maid 
— an old maid at twenty-five ! This was her real age, and 
of course she should have been in all her freshness; but to 
husband-hunters, a year passed in the chase counts double. 
She had been in society seven years, and wasted hopes and 
expectations, wounded vanity and disappointed ambition 
had left their mark on her voice and character, as well as 
on her face. 

By candlelight she was still beautiful; for nothing 
could mar the pure classic outline of her features; but by 
daylight, as Boris now saw her, in her dress of tumbled 
black silk, her lace hat, which was far from fresh, and 
with her worn gloves, her reddened eyes and faded com- 
plexion, and the discontented expression about her eyes, 


262 


SONIA. 


she was not even Lydie^s shadow. She was a younger 
edition of Madame Gor4line. 

Boris, seeing all this sad change, compassionated her in 
his heart; but only as he would have pitied any woman 
whom he knew to have fallen from a brilliant past to a 
miserable present. 

His commiseration was short and superfluous however ; 
to tell the truth, he had never known her, and nevei;^ 
really loved her ; it was simply the possibilities inherent 
in her nature which he had recognized ; it was rather 
what she might have been than what she was, that he 
had loved, and therefore it was, that he was able to give 
her up so utterly the day of his discovery of her treason 
toward him. 

While he contemplated her daughter thus sadly, 
Madame Goreline began to speak with such fluency, that 
it was easy to see that she was greatly embarrassed, not- 
withstanding her characteristic self-possession. 

She recited her bead-roll of miseries as if she had been 
in the habit of doing so for some time. Her husband 
was dead,’’ she said, and justice had not been done to her 
in regard to her pension as a widow. 

^^As to my daughter,” she continued, with bitter empha- 
sis, she is entitled to an especial pension, although they 
pretend to say that my son, Eugene, is old enough to be 
of use. He is to be sure a handsom^ young fellow of 
eighteen ; but are boys of eighteen often able to add to the 
incomes of impoverished mothers? '.^Ho you yourself 
think, Boris Ivanovitch, that a youth of that age, who 
has not yet left college, can be good for Vfery much ? ” 


SONIA. 


2G3 


Boris remembered when he was eighteen, while he 
was still at the university — that he had given lessons to . 
enable him in some degree to lighten his mother’s bur- 
thens; but not wishing to say this, he merely made a 
slight gesture, which the lady accepted as acquiescence. 

I am glad you agree with me,” continued the lady, 
^^for I said precisely this to the minister. Then I was in- 
formed that if some influential person would intercede for 
me, that something might be done. I wrote to Prince 
Armianof, my neighbor — a terrible humiliation to me, 
after the manner in which he has behaved. You know, 
of course, that he is married — he has not presented his 
wife to us, by the way — not that she is in the least interest- 
ing, you understand ; she is not even pretty, and such airs 
as she gives herself! She evidently thinks us not worth 
visiting, and yet she is the daughter of an ordinary 
, professor of Latin 1 

However, there is nothing that a mother would not 
do for the sake of her children ; so I WTote to the Prince 
to tell him of the injustice with which I had been treated. 
And will you believe me when I tell you that he has not 
condescended to come and see us I He wrote that he would 
do all that lay in his powder for us, and that is all. He 
knows very well that I am simply a poor widow without 
any protector. During the life of my beloved husband, 
no ono would have dared to treat me in this way.” 

And Madame Gor^line wiped her perfectly dry eyes 
with a ragged handkerchief. 

Prince Armianof, then, has been able to do nothing for 
you ? ” said Boris, coldly. 


264 


SONIA. 


On the contrary, he obtained an addition to my pen- 
sion of three hundred roubles, to revert to my daughter 
after my death ; but he took no pains to inform me of 
this, and when I heard it, if I had not at once gone to see 
the minister to ask when and how this had been done, I 
should never have known that Armianof had lifted his 
finger in the matter — that it was in fact he who had asked 
and obtained the increase in the pension. E-eally, it seems 
to me that there are some people who have no savoir vivre 
whatever.” 

^^If you have what you wish,” said Boris, repressing 
a smile, ^^you ought to felicitate yourself on having 
succeeded — ” 

^^Yes,” answered Madame Gor^line, with volubility; 
^^but that is not enough. Monsieur Gr4bof ! We were com- 
pelled to buy mourning, and then my son — ah ! sons 
are expensive, as you know, and we cannot make both % 
ends meet. I do not like to say this to you. Monsieur 
Gr^bof — to you who have known us in better days ; but 
I assure you we practise the most rigid economy. We live 
simply, almost poorly, and yet our expenses are greater 
than our income. Then I thought it was possible that 
you could be useful to us — ^you are so good ! ” 

Madame Gor^line stopped, with her eyes fixed on Boris, 
waiting for a word of encouragement. 

Extraordinarily enough she had forgotten that she had 
actually once lifted her hand to strike him ; that she had 
overwhelmed him with insults — with hot, burning words — 
that she had driven him out of her house — all because he 
had presumed to ask the hand of her daughter! She 


SONIA. 


265 


remembered only one thing: that he had loved Lydie, 
which, in her opinion, was reason enough for him to go on. 
all-fours the rest of his life to serve her, if they should 
happen to desire it. 

Such characters are by no means rare ; many such are 
met in society; the. varnish of good manners which cover 
them over is more or less thick. Boris, utterly dumb- 
founded, listened to this flow of words, to which this most 
unexpected conclusion added a deliciously comic element. 
Had Lydie not been there — Lydie, who sat with her eyes 
cast down in pale silence — he would have politely con- 
ducted Madame Gor^line to the door, and told her that he 
was utterly useless for her purposes ; but her daughter’s 
weary look made him more merciful toward the mother, 
and he allowed himself to be drawn on to the desired end. 

You are so good ! ” resumed Madame Gor4line, after 
waiting in vain for a reply. You have become a person 
of celebrity also,” she added, with an attempt at a gay 
laugh. You have published a new book, which is really 
very creditable to you, Monsieur Boris.” Here she nodded 
with a most knowing air. Your name is invariably seen 
among the contributors to all the journals and reviews, and 
we consequently thought that you might be useful to us. 
As I said before, we are old friends. Monsieur Gr^bof — 
very old friends,” she added, after a pause. 

Boris felt as if he were in a dream, and he sat looking 
at her almost incredulously. 

Yes, indeed, we are old friends. I was possibly a 
little quick-tempered,” she sighed, profoundly; have 
always been so ; and then who could possibly foresee after 


266 


SONIA, 


SO many years that — Well, never mind ! You will come 
and see us, I hope, Boris Ivanovitch.” 

You came, I think,’’ said Boris, in a most frigid tone, 
to ask something of me?” 

‘^Ah! yes — precisely. This is just it: my daughter 
refused to come ; she said that you hg,d forgotten us ; but 
I determined to come all the same, and she finally con- 
cluded to accompany me. She has translated a German 
novel — a long one — three whole volumes. Monsieur Gr^bof, 
and I thought that you might recommend it to the editor 
of a review — either the Messager de VEuropCj or the Mes~ 
sager Russe, perhaps.” 

You are not squeamish, upon my word, Madame Gor6- 
line!” thought Boris. 

This is the manuscript,” continued the lady, taking a 
voluminous roll from her daughter’s hand ; will you 
glance at it? It is well and most conscientiously done, I do 
assure you. She looked out every word in the dictionary 
that she did not know. Yes, indeed, it is thoroughly 
well done ! ” 

Boris took the manuscript — that same fine but irregular 
writing had made his heart beat to suffocation more than 
once in the past few years ! How distant seemed those 
dictees from Jocelyn ! He opened the package, and 
examined the title. 

It was a sentimental effusion, such as would be found in 
a Journal des Demoiselles ; but one where the lips of the 
fiances play as important a part as their hearts, after the 
German fashion. 

Lydie, trembling and nervous, watched Gr6bof, as he 


SONIA. 


267 


turned over the leaves. Did she remember Lamartine and 
the year she was eigTiteen? Who knows, so much had 
since happened? 

This little salon, too, might possibly have some sugges- 
tions to make to her. 

I am really grieved that you should have had all this 
labor,’^ said Boris, much distressed by the reply that he 
was forced to make, and turning for the first time a kindly 
glance upon the young lady. You have undertaken an 
enormous labor, and it is very unfortunate that you did 
not ask the advice of some man experienced in such matters 
before you began it. The translation seems good, but the 
work itself, I fear, is worthless. No editor whom I know 
would consent to publish a tale of such little value.’’ 

^^But, Boris Ivanovitch, we know that if you should 
take it to any Eeview, they would take it on your recom- 
mendation. Every one has such entire confidence in your 
judgment, that they would not ask a question if you handed 
it in.” 

I am very far from having the influence with which 
you credit me,’^ answered Boris, quietly; ^Mmt were it as 
you say, I should in that case be compelled to use the 
greater caution and discretion, and should never venture 
to offer any work like this most unfortunate romance. I 
say this to you with the greatest possible regret, and trust 
that you will understand that it is not the translation 
which I in any degree condemn, but the book itself; and 
I assure you that the public will think with me.” 

You refuse, then, to do what I ask of you — what we 
both ask of you, Boris Ivanovitch?” replied Madame 


268 


SONIA. 


Gor4liiie, in her most insinuating voice ; ah ! that is not 
kind ! Once you would have done anything to please my 
daughter!’^ she added, with a smile, which she tried to 
make extremely insinuating. 

Lydie snatched at her mother’s arm with a quick, almost 
rude gesture, but it was too late ; the words had passed 
her lips. Boris rose, pale with anger, and bowed to his 
visitors in a way that clearly indicated that he regarded 
the interview as closed. Madame Gor^line was, however, 
by no means the woman to allow herself to be thus dis- 
missed without taking her revenge. 

You refuse because you have other matters in hand,” 
she broke out, angrily. The society of respectable people 
is irksome to you noAV, I presume. When people associate 
with beggars and the scum of the earth, one loses one’s 
disposition to be useful to people of birth and position.” 

What do you mean?” asked Boris. 

I mean,” cried Madame Gor4line, in her sharpest voice, 
that I did a kindly act to society the day I drove you 
from my door, with the girl whom you have taken for your 
mistress — with whom you live openly — and in defiance of 
public opinion — and whom you have the impertinence to 
allow to open the door to visitors. Come, Lydie ; we 
should never have set foot in this house.” 

“ So I told you, mamma,” the girl replied, in her sharp 
voice. 

A heavy fall was heard, but Boris paid no attention to 
it; he shook from head to foot. The blood rushed to his 
head and blinded him. The brutal side of his nature— 
and all men have more or less' of this quality — tempted 


SONIA. 


269 


him to wring the necks of these two women. He made 
one hasty step toward them, showing so much energy and 
anger, that they retreated in terror. 

Mamma ! mamma ! cried Lydie, taking refuge behind 
an arm-chair. He will certainly hurt us. Call for 
help ! ” 

These words restored to Boris all his sangfroid. With 
tlie most punctilious politeness he threw open the door of 
the salon. They hurried into the anteroom, and hastily 
caught their cloaks and wraps, which were hung there by 
Sonia^s careful hands. 

The manuscript had fallen to the ground. Boris picked 
it up and laid it on the table before Lydie, who was 
pulling on her fur boots. She cast a furtive glance at this 
man who had once loved her. Anger, fear, respect, and 
not a little admiration, were in her eyes, which met those 
of Boris, while his were full of cold contempt. All that 
was bad in her nature rose to the surface, and as her foot 
reached the stairs, she uttered these words : 

I did well not to marry a profligate ; a man who 
carries off little girls to seduce them ! ” 

After Treason comes Calumny,’^ replied Boris, now 
entirely master of himself. ^^It is always the order of 
things. Good-morning.^’ 

And he closed the door on the two women. 

For a few moments he lingered in the anteroom, seeking 
to bring order into the mental chaos which his visitors 
had created. 

A hot flush of rage. — Sonia must have heard all ! The 
thin walls of the apartment permitted the least whisper to 


270 


SONIA. 


penetrate them. He rushed to the kitchen with feverish 
haste, a vague misgiving tormenting him. 

Tiie bright little room was shining with cleanliness, but 
it was deserted. He opened the door leading to the 
private stair-case. Not a sound could he hear. Much 
disturbed, he examined, with trembling hands, Sonia’s 
clothing, which hung in a small wardrobe : the cloak and 
shawl she ordinarily wore on going out were in their places. 
He went on and entered his room, but there was no oue 
there either. 

There was now no other spot to examine except the 
half dark closet where Sonia’s bed had stood, and which 
he had never entered since the day they moved into the 
house. Up to this moment he had not called her, but, 
when his hand was on the door, he stopped and said, in a 
low, smothered voice : 

''Sonia!” 

A faint sound — sob or sigh — was heard. He entered 
quickly, and, kneeling on the floor, he beheld Sonia, with 
her face buried in her hands. 

Boris could hardly see her in the dim light. Her hair 
had become loose, and covered her shoulders with its 
wealth. As the young man appeared, she seemed to 
crouch still lower, as if ashamed to meet his eyes. 

"Sonia! ” said Boris, taking another step toward her. 

His heart was aching. He would have given anything 
in the world, to calm those despairing sobs which convulsed 
the shoulders of the crushed little creature. He would 
have liked to snatch her to his breast, to dry her tears with 
his kisses, as he would have done to a hurt child. He 


SONIA. 


271 


dared not, however ; for it would have been an offence to 
the girl’s awakened susceptibility. 

Sonia ! ” he repeated. 

This appeal was full of tenderness. 

She turned her eyes, swimming in tears, toward him. 
How submissive and yet entreating was her gaze ! and it 
seemed to demand mercy, as if she expected a blow. 

The young man’s heart beat quickly. Those suppli- 
cating eyes revealed to him a host of sentiments, hitherto 
lying dormant and unsuspected in his heart. 

Sonia,” he said, I have been very wrong. ^ I implore 
your pardon.” 

Pardon,” she exclaimed, rising hastily. ^^You! Is 
it you who ask pardon of me ? ” 

She fell on her knees before the young man. 

I ought to have known that my presence here would 
do you harm ; that it was not proper for me to be your 
servant any longer, and that you would be accused of 
wicked things. O master ! you have given me every- 
thing. Thanks to you, I have learned to know God and 
good people. You have given me ease and liberty, and 
you have loved me, as your blessed mother did. And I 
have only brought to you insult and injury. Ah ! would 
that I could die ! ” 

Boris did not venture to interrupt her. It seemed to 
him . that this was the critical hour of his life ; that his 
destiny hung on Sonia’s lips, and that her next words 
would seal his fate. 

Yes, I would like to die — or go away,” she resumed, 
with tears and passionate vehemence ; but I cannot leave 


272 


SONIA. 


you — you, master ! — I cannot leave you ; for you are every- 
thing to me; and I cannot live away from you ! I love 
you too much to depart. How can I live where you are 
not ? When you were away I thought that all the sun- 
light had faded out of the sky. My life was desolate — I 
have been a miserable coward ! When you asked me if 
I did not mean to marry, I should have said Yes, and 
gone away at once ; but I could not. I never dreamed 
that you would be insulted on my account ! 

Boris listened, and with each despairing word uttered 
by the child, a deeper joy filled his heart, a new- horizon 
spread itself before him — a lifetime of happiness. He 
listened with his eyes dilated and lips parted, as if fearful 
of losing one word; while his arms were half extended 
as if to snatch her when she had finished speaking. 

I am going away, master ; I am going away this very 
day, this very hour; and you will tell them all that 
there was no truth in what they said, and that I am gone. 
Ah ! yes ; I should have done this before ; but it was 
surely not my fault that I love you more than my life. 
When I am gone, you will be happy ! ” 

She was leaning on the little box which contained all 
her worldly effects, and turned a face glowing with the 
beautiful light of self-sacrifice toward Boris. She turned 
away. Boris caught her in his arms. 

Happy ! ’’ he cried. “ Happy without you ! I love 
you, Sonia ! Will you be my wife ? ” 


THE END. 


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same size, and at the same low price 

SALATHIEL; THE WANDERING JEW. By Rev. George Croly. 
AURORA FLOYD. A Love Story. By Miss Braddon. 

MARRYING FOR MONEY. A Love Story in Real Life. 
THACKERAY’S IRISH SKETCH BOOK. With 38 Illustrations. 
EDINA. A Love Story. By Mrs. Henry Wood. 

CORINNE; OR, ITALY. By Madame De Stael. 

CYRILLA. A Love Story. By author of “ The Initials,” 
FLIRTATIONS IN AMERICA; or, HIGH LIFE IN NEW YORK. 
THE COQUETTE. A Tale of Love and Pride. 

CHARLES O’MALLEY, The Irish Dragoon. By Charles Lever. 
THE FLIRT. By author of “The Gambler’s Wife.” 

THE DEAD SECRET. By Wilkie Collins. 

THE WIFE’S TRIALS. By Miss Pardoe. 

THE MAN WITH FIVE WIVES. By Alexander Dumas. 

HARRY LORREQUER. By Charles Lever. 

PICKWICK ABROAD. Illustrated. By G. W. M. Reynolds. 
FIRST AND TRUE LOVE. By George Sand. 

THE MYSTERY. A Love Story. By Mrs. Henry Wood. 

THE STEWARD. By author of “Valentine Vox.” 

BASIL; or, THE CROSSED PATH. By Wilkie Collins. 
POPPING THE QUESTION. By author of “The Jilt.” 

THE JEALOUS WIFE. By Miss Julia Pardoe. 

SYLVESTER SOUND. By author of “Valentine Vox.” 

THE CONFESSIONS OF A PRETTY WOMAN. 

THE RIVAL BEAUTIES. By Miss Pardoe. 

WKITEFRIARS; Or, The Days of Charles the Second. 
WEBSTER AND HAYNE’S SPEECHES. Unabridged. 

211^^ Above Books are for sale by all Booksellers, or copies will he sent to 
any one, to anyplace, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the Publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

300 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 


PETERSONS’ "DOLLAR SERIES" 

OF GOOD AND NEW NOVELS 
ARE THE BEST, THE LAE&EST, THE HANDSOMEST, 
AND THE CHEAPEST BOOHS IN THE WORLD, 

.Price ONE DOLLAR Eachy in Mor toco Cloth, Dlach and Gold. ■ 

THE MATCHMAKER. A Society Hovel. By Beatrice Reynolds. 
THE STORY OF “ELIZABETH." By Miss Thackeray. 

A WOMAN’S THOUGHTS ABOUT WOMEN. By Miss Mulock, 
TWO WAYS TO MATRIMONY ; or, Is It Love, or, False Pride ? 
MY SON'S WIFE. By the Author of “Caste.” 

THE RIVAL BELLES; or, Life in Washington. By J. B. Jones. 
OUT OF TEE DEPTHS. The Story of a Woman’s Life. 
FLIRTATIONS IN FASHIONABLE LIFE. By Catharine Sinclair. 
THE COQUETTE; or, The Life and Letters of Eliza Wharton. 

THE DEVOTED BRIDE, By St. George Tucker, of Virginia. 

THE HEIRESS IN THE FAMILY. By Mrs. Daniels. 
SARATOGA! AND THE FAMOUS SPRINGS. A Love Story. 
COUNTRY QUARTERS. By the Countess of Blessington. 

LOVE AND DUTY. A Love Story. By Mrs. Huhhack. 
SELF-LOVE. A Book for Young Ladies and for Women. 

THE MAN OF TEE WORLD. By William North. 

THE QUEEN'S FAVORITE; or. The Price of a Crown. 

THE CAVALIER. A Novel. By G. F. R. James. 

COLLEY CIBBER’S LIFE OF EDWIN FORREST, with Portrait. 
TEE WOMAN IN BLACK. A Companion to ‘ The Woman in White.’ 
HAREM LIFE IN EGYPT AND CONSTANTINOPLE. 

WOMAN’S WRONG. A Book for Women. By Mrs. Eiloart. 

IHE old PATROON ; or. The Great Van Broek Property. 

THE RECTOR’S WIFE; or. The Valley of a Hundred Fires. 

THE PRIDE OF LIFE. A Love Story. By Lady Jane Scott. 

‘‘Petersons’ Dollar Series” will he found for sale hy all Booksellers, 
or copies of any one or all of them,, 'ioill be sent, post-paid, to any one, to any 
place, on remitting One Dollar for each one wanted, to the Publishers, 

T. Bo PETERSOM & BROTHERS, 

306 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 


«@“MES, SOUTHWORTH’S NEW BOOK.-®3 



OR, OUT OF THE DEPTHS, 


Js now Cotniilete in Boole Forfn, in Two Volumes* Brice $1.73 each, or 
$3.50 a sett and is issued tinder the names of 



MRS. E. D. E. N. SOUTH WORTH’S COMPLETE WORKS. 

Compute in forty-three volumes, hound in morocco cloth, with a full gilt back, price 
$l.7o each; or $75.25 a set, each set in a neat box. The following are their names: 

Ishmael; or. In the^Depths— being “Self-Made.” 

Self-Raised; or. Prom the Depths, sequel to “Ishmael.” 

Mrs. Southworth’s “ Mother-in-Law ; or. Married in Haste.” 

The Phantom Wedding; or. The Pall of the House of Plint. 


The Patal Secret. 
Cruel as the Grave. 
Tried Por Her Life. 
Pair Play. 

The Lost Heiress. 
How He Worn Her. 
The Maiden Widow. 
Victor’s Triumph. 
The Pamily Doom. 

A Beautiful Piend. 
The Bride’s Pate. 
Bride of Llewellyn. 
The Changed Brides. 
The Spectre Lover. 
Prince of Darkness. 
The Christmas Guest, 
Pallen Pride. 

The Portune Seeker. 
Retribution, 

The Bridal Eve. 


The Patal Marriage. 

Love’s Labor Won. 

The Deserted Wife. 

A Hoble Lord. 

The Gipsy’s Prophecy. 

Lost Heir Linlithgow. 

The Three Beauties. 

Vivia; Secret of Power. 

The Artist’s Love. 

Allworth Abbey. 

The Two Sisters. 

Discarded Daughter. 

The Widow’s Son. 

Wife’s Victory. 

The Missing Bride, 

Lady of the Isle. 

The Haunted Homestead. 
The Curse of Clifton. 

India; Pearl of Pearl River, 
Mystery of Dark Hollow. 


Above Books are for sale by all Booksellers, or copies will be sent to 
way one, to any place, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

300 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 



“ Combfnea more attractions than any other .” — Beaver (Pa.) Times. 


CHEAPEST AND BEST 


PETERSOi^’S PSAeAlfHE 

FULL-SeZE PAPER PATTERI^S! 


i8^ A Supplement loill be given in every number for 1878, containing a full-size 
paper pattern for a lady's, or child's dress. Every subscriber will receive, during the 
year, twelve of these patterns, so that these alone will be worth more than the subscrip- 
tion price.^'^&k 


“ PETERSON’S MAGAZINE ” has the best Original Stories of any of the lady’s 
books, the best Colored Fashion Plates, the best Berlin Patterns, the best Receipts. 
Its principal illustrations are not cheap wood-cuts, as with others, but 

mmi 

Every family ought to take it. It gives more for the money than any in the world. 
It has long been celebrated for its 

THRILLING TALES AND NOVELETTES 

It will contain, in 1878, Five Original Copyright Novelettes, by Mrs. Ann S 
Steplions, Frank Lee Benedict, Mrs. F. Hodgson Burnett, as well as others of the best 
authors of America. Also, nearly a hundr^ shorter stories, all original. Its superb 

Mammoth Colored Fashion Plates 

Are ahead of all others. These plates are engraved on steel, twice the usual size, 
and are the very Latest Paris Styles. 

N.B. — As the publisher now pre-pays the postage to all mail subscribers, Peterson" 

is CHEAPER THAN EVER ; in foct is THE CHEAPEST IN THE WORLD. 


TERMS (Always in Advance) $2.00 A YEAR. 


2 

3 

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8 

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Copies 

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for 

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for 

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for 

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Address, 


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With a copy of the premium picture (24 x 20) 
“ The Angels of Christmas,” a./ire dollar engraving, 
to the person getting up the Club. 

With an extra copy of the Magazine for 1878, as 
a premium, to the person getting up the Club. 

With both an extra copy of the Magazine for 1878, 
and the premium picture, a five dollar engraving, 
to the person getting up the Club. 


CHARLES J. PETERSON, 

306 (Jhcstnat St., Philadelphia, Fa, 

9^ Specimens sent gratis, if written for. • 


A HEART TWICE WON; 

OR, 

SEOOMO il-oite:- 

A CHARMING STORY. 

BY MRS, ELIZABETH VAN LOON. 

“A HEART TWICE AVON; OR, SECOND LOVE.” By Mrs. 
Elizabeth Van Loon. Now and then a new writer appears to take the 
reading world by storm. In this category may be placed the author of 
“A Heart Twice Won” (a capital title), in which the mystery of the 
plot is at once veiled and half revealed. A most experienced critic, who 
has probably read two-thirds of the novels of the last forty years, says, 
“ ‘A Heart Tw'ICE Won ’ must be a brilliant success, and hit the public 
taste. That it is by a new writer, is very evident ; it is equally obvious, 
from the delicacy and force with which the jilot has been framed and 
worked out to a legitimate conclusion, as well as from the development 
of the respective characters, that a young lady is the author. It is pure 
as well as passionate. Moreover, the incidents, sometimes startling, are 
put together in a skilful manner, and are all within the legitimate 
limit of probability. The scene, alternately in Virginia and in Europe, is 
always accurately realistic — whether the action takes place on a Southern 
estate, or amid fashionable society in London, or (still more difficult to 
depict) in an Earl’s ancestral castle in rural England. Nothing can 
exceed the easy grace, and truth of the last. The dialogue is at once nat- 
ural and expressive; and, above all, this is, most intensely, a thorough 
love tale. The hero and heroine marry in the opening chapter, and if 
you would know how ‘A Heart was Twice Won,’ do not fail to read 
this strange, sentimental, and absorbing story. It is just the book to 
create a sensation, and meet with a warm welcome from the public, if 
any book will.” This opinion, though not written for publication, accu- 
rately characterizes “A Heart Twice Won.” 


Bound in Morocco Cloth, Gilt and Black, Price $1.50. 


Above Booh is for sale by all Booksellers, or copies will be sent to any 
place, at once, per mail, post-paid, on remitting pr ice to the publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

306 Cliestnut St., Pliiladelplila, Pa. 


HENRY GREVILLE’S BEST BOOKS. 



A EUSSIAN STOEY. 


Translated from the French of Henry Greville, 
by Mary Neal Sherwood. 


The most dramatic and most powerful novel, and the one that established Henry Gr6- 
vine’s tame in Europe, is “Savkli’s Expiation,” {translated from the French^ bij Martf 
NpmI Sherwood)^ which is a faithful portrayal of Russian despotism in the time of serfdoni, 
and although the character on which the plot rests is strongly dnawn, it is not overdrawn, 
but is true to the times and sitiialiou. Powerful as it is, it is as free from exaggeration 
as if it were described from memory of an actual event, while a pathetic, tender love 
story is. presented for relief. “Saveli’s Expiation ” shows more power and wonderful 
concentration than any the author hcis written; the descriptions are so vivid, and the 
characii-rs and surroundings presented with such clearness and strength, that one is 
carried to the very scene and feels the atmosphere. Henry Greville’s canvases are never 
croM'ded, though she is not what is called an emotional writer; yet there is an underly- 
ing tone of pathos in this novel which escapes at times in i)owerfnl passages, the inteV- 
est being well sustained tlirmghout, wliile the story is refined and exceedingly enjoya- 
ble. The chai'in of In r novels consists in their fresliness, her characters being delineated 
with bold yet delicate touches, and perfect truthfulness made subservient to art, so that 
one finds in them an individuality which makes them life pictures. Herein lies this 
author's power, for few could wiite novels which leave so strong an impression on the 
mind as hers, and yet employ so few incidents and so little of the sensational. Her por- 
trayal of life and manners, as well as her descriptions of scenery, give evidence of quick 
observation and keen Jiualysis, and her language is peculiar for its figurativeness. Her 
characters are not tediously described, but represent themselves, like veritable dramatis 
persouiB^ as do those from every masterly pen. Henry Greville is also a woman of edu- 
cation and int(3llect, second only to George Eliot, with whom foreign reviewers justly 
comi)are her, who also consider tliat she will take a higher rank than any novelist on the 
continent, and •that it will outlast that of any of the popular writers of the day. She was 
employed by French joyrnals to go to Russia to write for them; and, as Edward King 
says, “they fight for the possession of her penf — Boston Daily Evening TranscripL 

GABEIELLE; or, HOUSE OF MAUREZE. 

BY HENKY GREVILLE. 

‘=GABETELLE; ou, THE HOUSE OF MAUREZE,” is a very touching story, most 
skilfully told, and follows the life of a girl whose title it bears. At sixteen, when the 
story opens, she marries into the house of Maureze, never liaving seen her ImsbaTid 
until she meets him at the altar, wliich was the custom of the time of Louis the Four- 
teenth. Monsieur Maureze was forty wlien iiis wife wiis sixteen. Maureze loved liis 
young wife as well as he could love anything, but could not endure the sarcasm of his 
friends in Iris devotion to her, so he concluded do put his wife away from temptation, 
when, after a year or so, he leaves lier in the Maureze Chateau, out of sight and out of 
mind for eighteen years. Before rejoining his regiment, two cliildren are born to tliem, 
and it is of GabrieUe and her sorrows that the story treats. If we were to tell any more 
of the plot it would be to tell the story, so we advise all persons to get the book, and see 
for themselves how naturally everything happened, and how excellently it is all told. 

Above are 50 Cents each in paper cover, or $1.00 each in cloth, black and gold. 

Above Books are for sale by all Booksellers, or copies will be sent to 
any place, at once, per mail, post-paid, on remitting price to the publishers^ 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

306 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 



New Books for Summer and Winter Reading, 


I HE Days of Madame Pompadour. 

BY GABRIELLE DE ST. ANDRE. 

T TrAra /IT^T f P 

^eL^wJsI W b fiVii X ilda 

A CHARMING LOVE STORY. 

THE RED HIRE TRADED!. 


BY MRS. EMMA D. E. N. SOUTHI?? ORTH. 


THAT 




A CHAEMING LOVE STORY. 


m 


HE AMOURS OF PHILIIPPE. 

BY OCTAVE FEUILLET. 

Price 50 Cents eacli in paper coYer, or $1.00 each in cloth. 


H^^The above New Books are printed on tinted paper, and are issued in square 12mo. 
form, in uniform style with ^^Theo,” “Kathleen/^ *‘Miss Orespigny,” and “Pretty Polly 
Pemberton,^^ by Mrs. Burnett, and are for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or 
copies will be sent to any one, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

306 Chestnut St., Pliiladelpliia, Pa% 


Summer ^ Winter Reading, 


GABRIELLB 


BY HENRY GREVILLE. 


THE MATCHMAKER. 


BY BEATRICE REYNOLDS. 


THE STOHY OF ELIZABETH 


BY MISS THACKERAY. 



TO lATeillY: 

Or, IS IT LOVE? or, FALSE PRIDE. 


BESSIE’S SIX LOVERS. 

BY HENRY PETERSON. 


Price 50 Cents each in paper cover, or $1.00 each in cloth. 


above New Books are printed on tinted paper, and are issited in square 12nio, 
form, in uniform style with “Theo,” “Kathleen,'” “^fiss Crespigny,” and “Pretty Polly 
Pemberton,” by Mrs. Burnett, and are for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, Of 
copies will be sent to any one, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

30(5 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa* 


By Author of “That Lass o’ Lowrie’s.” 

MRS. BURMTH MW BiKS. 


I. 


Miss Orespig'ny. 


II. 


KATHLEEN. 

III. 

“T H B O.” 


IV. 


PBmV POliW PIBEBM, 




MRS. FRAHOiS RODGIOH BORNETT. 

Price 50 Cents each in paper coyer, or $1.00 in cloth. 


Above Books are for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or copies will be 
tent to any one, to any place, at once, post-paid-, on remitting price to the pvhlishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

306 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 


NSW BOOKS IN PBESS 


I. 

A WOMAN’S MISTAKE; or, JACQUES DE TR^l- 
VANNES. From the French of Madame Angele Dussaud, 

/ i 

L’ASSOMMOIR. By Emile Zola, Translated from the Forty- 
eighth French Edition, 

III. 

MADELEINE. By Jules Sandeay^:, His Prize Novel. Crowned 
by the French Academy. Translated by John Edwards, 

IV. 

SUZANNE NOEMIS. (Roman . Un Phe.) By Henry Grb- 
ville, author of .“Sonia,” “Saveli’s Expiation,” “GabrieUe.” 

V. 

MISS MARGERY’S ROSES. A Charming Love Story. By 
Robert C, Meyers, 

VI. 

LES KOUMIASSINE. By Henry Gr'eville, author of “ Sonia,” 
“ Saveli’s Expiation,” “ Gabrielle,” etc. 

VII. 

MADEMOISELLE SAINT MAUR’S LOVER. By Vic- 
tor Cherbuliez. 

VIII. 

LA PETITE SOEUR. (‘^ The Little Sister, By Ernest Daudet, 

IX. 

UN MARTYR D’AMOUR. By Ernest Daudet, 

X. 

OLGA. By Louis Enault, 


Above Boohs will be for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents everywhere, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, Publishers, 

306 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 


Emile Zola’s Great iBook. 



(UNE PAGE D’ AMOUR.) 


AUTHOR OF “ L’ASSOMMOIR,” ETC., ETC. 

TEANSLATED PEOM TEE TEENCH BY MAEY EEAL SHEEWOOD. 


“Emile Zola” is one of the four great authors in France of the present day, and 
there he is called the cleverest of the four. His novel, “ L’Assommoir,” to be issued in 
a few days by us, has already passed through forty-eight editions in Paris, and this one, 
which is extremely interesting — indee(5^'^xciting— just issued there, has already passed 
into its twenty-eighth edition. One of the most noted literary editors in New Y ork writes 
as follows to Mrs. Sherwood : “ I have just finished reading, and return to you by 
mail, your advance copy of ‘ Zola’s ’ extraordinary book, ‘ Une Page d’Amour.’ 
It is admirably written, and is full of powerful and life-like delineations of character, 
and in this respect surpasses any of his preceding publications, and you, with your 
skill, will have no difficulty in rendering it into pure English. By all means translate 
it at once, and your publishers, whoever they may be, will have the honor of intro- 
ducing the cleverest book as well as a new and the greatest writer of the day to the 
American public.” And in a letter just received by Mrs. Sherwood from one of the 
most celebrated critics in Paris, he says: “ Why do you not translate ‘Zola’s’ new 
book, ‘Une Page d’Amour’ at once? It is the great sensation over here. The 
book is admirably written by a truly great artist, with a powerful realism and absorb- 
ing interest, and would be a splendid card for you to play, and would prove to be a 
great success in America. The characters and scenes of the story are well conceived 
and well executed, and it is impossible to deny the author’s great technical skill, and 
every reader will acknowledge ‘Zola’s’ great power. Besides the story, there are 
many pages devoted to rapturous descriptions of Paris at sunrise, at noonday, at sun- 
set, and at night. Zola has made his name famous, and he will find plenty of readers 
for all he writes. His name alone will make any book sell.” 


Paper Cover, 50 Cents. Morocco Cloth, Gilt and Black, $1.00. 


The above booh is -printed on tinted paper y and is issued in square 127 no. 
form, in uniform style with ^^Theo,” '^Kathleen,’^ “Miss Orespigny,” and “Pretty Polly 
Pemberton,” by Mrs. Burnett, and is for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or 
copies will be sent to any one, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the Publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

306 Cliestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 


Henry Greville*s Best Book. 



BY MllMRY GRKYIBBB. 


TEAHSLATED PEOM THE PEENOH BY MAEY HEAL SHEEWOOD. 


The name of Henry Greville is becoming familiar to the American public through 
the great popularity of her novels, for she is a writer of unusual genius and great 
originality. Her most dramatic, and most po\^r|ul novel, and the one that established 
her fame in Europe, is “ Saveli’s Expiation,” whiph is a faithful portrayal of Russian 
despotism in the time of serfdom, and altho\igli the^haracter on which the plot rests 
is strongly drawn, it is not overdrawn, but is true to the times and situation. Powerful 
as it is, it is as free from exaggeration as if it wpre described from memory of an actual 
event, while a pathetic, tender love story is presented for relief. “ Saveli’s Expiation ” 
shows more power and wonderful coucenfratiou than any the author has written ; the 
descriptions are so vivid, and the characters and surroundings presented with such 
clearness and strength, that one is carried t(T’the very scene and feels the atmosphere. 
Henry Greville’s canv -ses are never crowded, though she is not what is called an 
emotional writer ; yet there is an underlying tone of pathos in this novel which escapes 
at times in powerful passages, the interest being well sustained throughout, while the 
story is refined and exceedingly enjoyable. The charm of her novels consists in their 
freshness, her characters being delineated with bold yet delicate touches, and perfect 
truthfulness made subservient to art, so that one finds in them an individuality which 
makes them life pictures. Herein lies this author’s power, for few could write novels 
which leave so strong an impression on the mind as hers, and yet employ so few inci- 
dents and so little of the sensational. Her portrayal of life and manners, as well as 
her descriptions -of scenery, give evidence of quick observation and keen analysis, and 
her language is peculiar for its figurativeness. Her characters are not tediously 
described, but represent themselves, like veritable dramatis personcs, as do those from 
every masterly pen. She is also a woman of education and intellect, second only to 
George Eliot, with whom foreign reviewers justly compare her, who also consider 
that she will take a higher rank than any novelist on the continent, and that it will 
outlast that of any of the popular writers of the day. She was employed by French 
journals to go to Russia to write for them; and, as Edward King says, “ they fight 
for the possession of her pen.” — Boston Daily Evening Transcript. 

GABRIELLE; or, THE HOUSE OF MAUREZE. Translated from the French of 
Madame Henry Greville, the most popular writer in Europe at the present time. 

Above are 50 Cents each in paper cover, or $1.00 each in cloth. 


The above books are p'inted on tinted paper, and are issued in square 12wio. 
form, in uniform style with ‘‘Theo,” “Kathleen,^’ “Mss G'espigny/* and ^Hretty Folly 
Femb&rton,” by Mrs. Burnett, and are for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, 0 / 
copies mil be sent to any one, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the Publishers, 

T. B. PETEKSON & BKOTHERS, 

306 Cliestnut Street, Pliiladelpliia, Pa. 


£i@nry Greville’s Greatest Work. 


S O 3^ I 

A RUSSIAN STORY. 

BY HHWRY GR:CYIKj,L,E. 

AUTHOR OF “ SAV^lLl’S EXPIATION,” AND “ GABRIELLE.” 

TEANSLATED PKOM THE. PEEKOH BY MAEY NEAL SHEEWOOD. 

Henry GRfiviLLE’s last and greatest npvel, “ Sonia,” is charming and refined, and 
is a very powerful Russian story, simple, while wonderfully impressive, and shows 
the author’s intelligence, agreeable' humor, ready wit, invention, and great power in 
the drawing of character. “SoNiA” is a poor little Russian slave girl (a serf, of 
course), knocked about and abused bjr the'hrutal aristocrats whom she served, until a 
young tutor, Boris Ivanovitch by name, who had come to give lessons at the chateau 
of Generate Gor61ine to Lydie and Eugene, took her under his protection. The great 
value of the work consists in the delicacy and originality with which the really beau- 
tiful character of the girl, “ SoNiA,” is developed. “ Sonia” is a graceful, domestic 
story, displaying the author’s ready invention, imaginative style and play of fancy, is 
careful in construction, and most charmingly and beautifully told — giving one a very 
distinct idea of every-day home life in Russia, while the story of Prince Armianof, 
and of the tutor’s love for “ Lydie,” who does not care for him, and of his and her sub- 
sequent fate, make the book bright and note-worthy. Madame Henr}' Greville has 
achieved a universal reputation, and her novels are being translated -into all the 
tongues of Europe. She is also a brilliant French woman, but has resided for many 
years in Russia, where she has mastered all phases of Russian character, and it is thus 
easy to perceive how well the author knows the people she undertakes to describe. 

SAVELI’S EXPIATION. By Henry Greville. A dramatic and powerful novel of 
Russian life, and a pure, pathetic love story. Translated by Mary Neal Sherwood. 

GABRIELLE; or, THE HORSE OF MARREZE. Translated from the French of 
Madame Henry Qr'eville^ the most popular writer in Europe at the present time. 

Ahoye are 50 Cents each in paper coYcr, or $1.00 each in Cloth. 


The above Boohs are printed on tinted paper, and are issued in square 12mo. 
form, in uniform style with ‘^Theo,” ^^Kathleen,” “il/iss Oi'espigny,’* and ^‘Pretty Polly 
Pemberton,'’ by Mrs. Burnett, and are for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or 
copies will be sent to any one, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the Publishers^ 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, 

306 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 


! I®- MRS. SOUTHWORTH’S NEW BOOK, “©a 

THE PHANTOM WEDDING; 

! OE, THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF FLINT, 

I BY MRS. EMMA D. E. N. SOUTHWORTH. 

I Printed from the author’s manuscript, written by her expressly for this volume, and 
never before printed or published in any ojfeher form whatever. 

Contents of ^^The Weddimj,^^ 

Part First. — Outside of the Old Flint Fates — A Mysterious Warn* 

ing — A Strange Picture — Braving 

Part Second.— Inside of the Old Fli^yBakc^Sp'^tary Watcher on New YeaPs 
Eve— The Wandering Voice— Lo^^m|»|^^J^irember ! ’’—The Phantom Wed- 
ding — The Spectral Brides. 

Part Third. — The Old Crone’s- Story— In^^ ^^lBlM vsterv — The Beautiful Sisters — 
The Supplanted Bridegroom— The Tragic i^lljltill^The Bride of Death— The New 
Home and the New Life. 

Bound in Morocco Cloth, Gilt ‘ftS? Black.— Price $1.;5. 


MRS. EMMA D. E. N. SOUTHWORTH’S COMPLETE WORKS. 

Complete in forty-three volumes, bound in morocco cloth, with a full gilt back, price $1.75 each; 
or $75,25 a set, each set in a neat box. The following are their names: 


The Phantom Wedding; or. The Fall of the House of Flint. 
Mrs. South worth’s Mother-in-Law ; or. Married in Haste. 
Ishmael; or. In the Depths—being “Self-Made.” 
Self-Eaised; or. From the Depths, sequel to “Ishmael.” 
Miriam, the Avenger ; or. The Missing Bride. 


Tried For Her Life. 

How He Won Her. 

The Maiden Widow. 

A Beautiful Fiend. 

Bride of Llewellyn. 

The Changed Brides. 

The Three Beauties. 

Cruel as the Grave. 

The Fortune Seeker. 
Mystery of Dark Hollow. 
Prince of Darkness. 


The Deserted Wife. 

The Gipsy’s Prophecy. 

Lost Heir of Linlithgow. 
Vivia ; Secret of Power. 
Discarded Daughter. 

The Haunted Homestead. 
The Curse of Clifton. 

The Fatal Marriage. 

India ; Pearl of Pearl River. 
The Spectre Lover. 


The Lost Heiress. 
The Bridal Eve. 
Wife’s Victory. 
Lady of the Isle. 

A Noble Lord. 
Allworth Abbey. 
Love’s Labor Won, 
The Two Sisters. 
The Widow’s Son, 
Fallen Pride. 

The Family Doom. 
The Artist’s Love. 
The Fatal Secret. 
The Bride’s Fate. 
Victor’s Triumph. 


The Christmas Guest. 


Fair Play. 


Retribution. 


0^ Our Illustrated Catalogue will be sent to any address, if wi'itten foi'; and great attention 
will be paid to all orders from the country, and all books ordered, will be carefully packed and 
forwarded at once, on receipt of orders accompanied with the cash, addressed to the publishers. 

Above Books are for sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or copies of any one or 
all of them, will he sent to any one, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the publishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, Philadelphia, Pa. 


HENRY GREVILLE’S BOOKS 

AND OTHER NEW AND GOOD BOOKS, JDST I’DBLISHED BY 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, PHILADELPHIA. 


■ The follovjing New Books are printed on tinted paper , and are issued in uniform style, 
in square 12mo. form. Price Fifty Cents each in Paper Cover, or One Dollar each in Morocco 
Cloth, Black and Gold. They are Seventeen of the best and most charming Novels ever printed. 


SONIA. A Russian Story, 
bridle ; or, The House of Mauri 

SAVELI’S EXPIATION. 

life, and a })ure, pathetic love 

GABRIELLE; or, THE H 

Expiation,” the most popular 

A WOMAN’S MISTAKE; or, 

lated from the French of Madame 

KATHLEEN. A Love Storyl^ 

“ Miss Crespigny,” “Pretty Pollf Pe 

“THEO.” A Love Story. Bn 



Henry Greville, author of “Savdi’s Expiation,” “ Gu- 
"Imnslated from the French, by Mary Neal Sherwood. 

A dramatic and powerful novel of Russian 
'’rorn the French, oy Mary Neal Sherivood. 

By Henry Greville, author of “ Saveli’s 
Ipresent. Translated from the French. 

f REVANNES. A Charming Story. Trans- 
aud, by Man'y Neal Sherwood. 

Frances Hodgson Burnett, author of “ Theo,” 
n,” etc. It is the most charming of all love stories. 




__ .. Frances Hodgson Burnett, author of “ Kathleen,” 

“ Pretty Polly Pemberton,” “ Miss Qfespi^iy,” etc. 

MISS CRESPIGNY. A Charming Love Story, By Mrs. Frances Hodgson Burnett, 
author of “ Theo,” “ Kathleen;” “ Pretty Polly Pemberton,” etc. 

PRETTY POLLY PEMBERTON. A Powerful Love Story. By Mrs. Frances Hodgson 
Burnett, author of “Theo,” Kathleen,” “Miss Crespigny,” etc. 

MADAME POMPADOUR’S GARTER ; or, THE DAYS OF MADAME POMPADOUR. 

A Thrilling and Historical Romance of the Reign of Louis XV. By Gabrielle J)e St. Andre. 

THE MATCHMAKER. A fcharraing Novel. By Beatrice Reynolds. All the pictures, 
characters, and scenes in it have all the freshness of- life, and all the vitality of truth. 

TWO WAYS TO MATRIMONY; or, IS IT L0VE1 or, FALSE PRIDE. A book for all 
ladies and Gentlemen ; as well as for all Parents, and all those contemplating Matrimony. 

THAT GIRL OF MINE. A Love Story. By the author of “TAai Zwe?’ o/J/me.” It is 
one of the most brilliant society novels evd issued, and of fashionable society in Washington 

THE RED HILL TRAGEDY. A Novel. By Mrs. Emma D. E. N. Sonthworth, author 
of “Ishmael,” “Self-Raised,” “ Mother-in-Law,” “ The Phantom Weddiug,” etc. 

THE AMOURS OF PHILLIPPE A History of “ Pitillippk’s Lovk Affairs.” By 
Octave Feuillet. Complete and unabridged, and translated by Mary Neal Sherwood. 


BESSIE’S SIX LOVERS. A Charming Love Story, of the purest and best kind. 

THAT LOVER OF MINE. A Love Story. By the author of “ That Girl of 3/ine.” 
THE STORY OF “ELIZABETH.” By Miss Thackeray, daughter of W. M. Thackeray. 

Above Books are 50 Cents each in Paper Cover, or $1.00 each in Cloth. 

Above Books are for sale by all Booksellers and Neios Agents, or copies of any one m 
all of them, will he sent to any o^ie, at once, post-paid, on remitting price to the ptiblishers, 

T. B. PETERSON & BROTHERS, Philadelphia, Pa. 


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